1961 Citroen 2CV vs. 2008 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1961 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1961 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 845 kg more than 1961 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, 2008 Citroen Xsara (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Citroen 2CV | 2008 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | 2CV | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 375 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 10 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 54 L |
