1971 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2005 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen Xsara (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. (131 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 208 kg more than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, both vehicles can yield 190 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2005 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Citroen |
| Model | Spider | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1962 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2610 mm |
