1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 2009 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 50 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 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (13 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 720 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, 2009 Citroen Xsara (161 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (24 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen 2CV | 2009 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | 2CV | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 1749 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 24 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 55 L |
