1993 Citroen Xantia vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1993 Citroen Xantia is newer by 15 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, 1993 Citroen Xantia (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1993 Citroen Xantia.
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, 1993 Citroen Xantia, 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Citroen Xantia. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Citroen Xantia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Citroen Xantia | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xantia | 131 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 2444 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2500 mm |
