1997 Citroen Xantia vs. 1977 Fiat 131
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xantia is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xantia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xantia (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 432 kg more than 1977 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Citroen Xantia (267 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xantia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xantia | 1977 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xantia | 131 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 76.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1020 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 |
