1972 AC 428 vs. 1998 Citroen Xsara

To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AC 428 weights approximately 334 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 AC 428 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 1972 AC 428. 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, 1972 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 502 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 1998 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1972 AC 428 has manual transmission. 1972 AC 428 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 AC 428 1998 Citroen Xsara
Make AC Citroen
Model 428 Xsara
Year Released 1972 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 7003 cc 1585 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 298 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 639 Nm 137 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1434 kg 1100 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 4170 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2550 mm