1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1972 ZAZ 966
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 ZAZ 966. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 ZAZ 966 would be higher. At 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xsara (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1972 ZAZ 966. (27 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1972 ZAZ 966. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 359 kg more than 1972 ZAZ 966. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 ZAZ 966 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 ZAZ 966. 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 ZAZ 966. (52 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 ZAZ 966. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1972 ZAZ 966 has manual transmission. 1972 ZAZ 966 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1972 ZAZ 966 | |
| Make | Citroen | ZAZ |
| Model | Xsara | 966 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 885 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 54.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1099 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2170 mm |
