1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1972 Fiat X1-9
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 X1-9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat X1-9 would be higher. At 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat X1-9 (74 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (57 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat X1-9 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 191 kg more than 1972 Fiat X1-9.
Because 1972 Fiat X1-9 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 X1-9. 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 @ 2600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat X1-9. (98 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat X1-9.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1972 Fiat X1-9 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | X1-9 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.1 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1071 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 47 L |
