1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2008 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (114 HP) has 94 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 875 kg more than 1959 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Citroen Xsara (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2008 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Abarth | Citroen |
| Model | 500 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1749 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |
