1961 Austin A vs. 2009 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Austin A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (74 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 46 kg more than 1961 Austin A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Austin A 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 1961 Austin A. 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 (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A | 2009 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Austin | Citroen |
| Model | A | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
