1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1998 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 486 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara (193 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1998 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Citroen |
| Model | Sprite | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2550 mm |
