1959 BMW Isetta vs. 2005 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW Isetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW Isetta would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1959 BMW Isetta. (13 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW Isetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 931 kg more than 1959 BMW Isetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 BMW Isetta 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 BMW Isetta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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. 2005 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1959 BMW Isetta has manual transmission. 1959 BMW Isetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW Isetta | 2005 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | Isetta | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 247 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | single | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 108 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 85 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 1 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 360 kg | 1291 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2300 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1510 mm | 2550 mm |
