2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (88 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 420 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
