1997 Citroen Xantia vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xantia is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 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 137 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 502 kg more than 1979 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xantia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xantia | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | Xantia | 12 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2450 mm |
