2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (74 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 314 kg more than 1980 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, 2008 Citroen Xsara (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2008 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2008 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 51 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1184 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
