2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1985 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 528 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. 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 (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1985 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2340 mm |
