1993 Citroen Xantia vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 1993 Citroen Xantia is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Citroen Xantia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1993 Citroen Xantia. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1993 Citroen Xantia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 287 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131.
Because 1981 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 1981 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Citroen Xantia. (120 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Citroen Xantia. 1993 Citroen Xantia has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1993 Citroen Xantia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Citroen Xantia | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xantia | 131 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2500 mm |
