1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1959 Fiat 1200
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Fiat 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Fiat 1200 would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xsara (74 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1959 Fiat 1200. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1959 Fiat 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 95 kg more than 1959 Fiat 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Fiat 1200 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 1959 Fiat 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara, 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 Xsara (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Fiat 1200. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Fiat 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1959 Fiat 1200 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 1200 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1221 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 37 L |
