1958 Abarth 500 vs. 2009 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 88 more horse power than 1958 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1958 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 767 kg more than 1958 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Abarth 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1958 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Citroen Xsara (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Abarth 500 | 2009 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Abarth | Citroen |
| Model | 500 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 115 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 54 L |
