1972 Chevrolet Vega 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 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 35 kg more than 1972 Chevrolet Vega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Vega 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 Chevrolet Vega. 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 Chevrolet Vega (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 1972 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1998 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1998 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Vega | 1998 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Citroen |
| Model | Vega | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2550 mm |
