1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1972 Fiat 850
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xsara (57 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 850.
Because 1972 Fiat 850 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 1972 Fiat 850. 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 (117 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1972 Fiat 850 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 850 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 153 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2040 mm |
