1979 Austin Marina vs. 1999 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen Xsara (74 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1979 Austin Marina. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1979 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 200 kg more than 1979 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Austin Marina 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 1979 Austin Marina. 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 (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Austin Marina | 1999 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Austin | Citroen |
| Model | Marina | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1274 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2550 mm |
