1948 Citroen 2CV vs. 1998 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1948 Citroen 2CV. (9 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1948 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 398 kg more than 1948 Citroen 2CV. 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara (153 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Citroen 2CV. (23 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Citroen 2CV | 1998 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | 2CV | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 375 cc | 1761 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 9 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 23 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 682 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2550 mm |
