1968 Abarth 1300 vs. 1998 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Abarth 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Abarth 1300 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 41 more horse power than 1968 Abarth 1300. (124 HP @ 7200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1968 Abarth 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 570 kg more than 1968 Abarth 1300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Abarth 1300 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 1968 Abarth 1300. 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 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Abarth 1300. (131 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Abarth 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Abarth 1300 | 1998 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Abarth | Citroen |
| Model | 1300 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1280 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2100 mm | 2550 mm |
