1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1964 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Triumph Spitfire 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 12 more horse power than 1964 Triumph Spitfire. (62 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1964 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 315 kg more than 1964 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Triumph Spitfire 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 1964 Triumph Spitfire. 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 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Triumph Spitfire. (91 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1964 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Citroen | Triumph |
| Model | Xsara | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1964 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1147 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 62 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 40 L |
