1955 Citroen 2CV vs. 1997 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xsara (57 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1955 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 632 kg more than 1955 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, 1997 Citroen Xsara (117 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (23 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Citroen 2CV | 1997 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | 2CV | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 23 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 63 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 558 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 54 L |
