1985 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2009 Citroen Xsara

To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 114 kg more than 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider.

Because 1985 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 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Citroen Xsara (205 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider. (178 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Alfa Romeo Spider 2009 Citroen Xsara
Make Alfa Romeo Citroen
Model Spider Xsara
Year Released 1985 2009
Body Type Roadster Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1960 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 126 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 178 Nm 205 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 85 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.5 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 197 km/hour 180 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 10 seconds 13.2 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1161 kg 1275 kg
Vehicle Length 4250 mm 4190 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2260 mm 2550 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 54 L