1974 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2001 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2001 Citroen Xsara is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen Xsara (106 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 243 kg more than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Chevrolet Vega. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Citroen Xsara (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Vega.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Vega | 2001 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Citroen |
| Model | Vega | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2285 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 54 L |
