2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 89 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 375 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit.
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 (205 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1982 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. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 900 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 |
