1996 Citroen Xantia vs. 1970 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1996 Citroen Xantia is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,762 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Citroen Xantia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Citroen Xantia (109 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 715 kg more than 1970 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Lotus Seven 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 1970 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Citroen Xantia (156 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Lotus Seven. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Citroen Xantia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Citroen Xantia | 1970 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | Xantia | Seven |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1762 cc | 1340 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2240 mm |
