1968 Abarth 1300 vs. 1999 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 31 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 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen Xsara (74 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1968 Abarth 1300. (73 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1968 Abarth 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 410 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, 1999 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, 1999 Citroen Xsara (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Abarth 1300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 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 | 1999 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Abarth | Citroen |
| Model | 1300 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1280 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 670 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2050 mm | 2550 mm |
