1974 Citroen GS 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 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Citroen GS would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen Xsara (69 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1974 Citroen GS. (58 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 138 kg more than 1974 Citroen GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (120 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen GS. (87 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen GS. 1974 Citroen GS has automatic transmission and 2001 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2001 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Citroen GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen GS | 2001 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | GS | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1220 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 942 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 54 L |
