2000 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2000 Citroen Xsara is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 362 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2000 Citroen Xsara (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2000 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1172 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
