1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 1999 Citroen Xantia
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xantia is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xantia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen Xantia (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 825 kg more than 1959 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, 1999 Citroen Xantia (187 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (25 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xantia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV. 1999 Citroen Xantia has automatic transmission and 1959 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1959 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Citroen Xantia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen 2CV | 1999 Citroen Xantia | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | 2CV | Xantia |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 423 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 25 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2750 mm |
