1980 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2006 Citroen Xsara

To start off, 2006 Citroen Xsara is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Citroen Xsara (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1980 Alfa Romeo Spider. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1980 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 320 kg more than 1980 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 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 1980 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Citroen Xsara (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Alfa Romeo Spider. (149 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Alfa Romeo Spider.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Alfa Romeo Spider 2006 Citroen Xsara
Make Alfa Romeo Citroen
Model Spider Xsara
Year Released 1980 2006
Body Type Roadster Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1570 cc 1749 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 105 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 149 Nm 160 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 11.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1000 kg 1320 kg
Vehicle Length 4130 mm 4280 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1640 mm
Wheelbase Size 2260 mm 2770 mm