1974 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1999 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 336 kg more than 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1974 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 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. 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 (190 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. (121 Nm). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1999 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Citroen |
| Model | Spider | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2700 mm |
