1985 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Citroen Xsara

To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 59 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 501 kg more than 1985 Ford Escort. 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, 2008 Citroen Xsara (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2008 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Ford Escort 2008 Citroen Xsara
Make Ford Citroen
Model Escort Xsara
Year Released 1985 2008
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1117 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 49 HP 108 HP
Torque 84 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 74 mm 85 mm
Engine Stroke Size 65 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 18.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 790 kg 1291 kg
Vehicle Length 4040 mm 4190 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2550 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 54 L