1992 Citroen XM vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1992 Citroen XM is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,444 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Citroen XM (115 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Citroen XM weights approximately 90 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Fiat 131 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Citroen XM, 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, 1992 Citroen XM (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1992 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Citroen XM | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | XM | 131 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2444 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2500 mm |
