1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1973 Fiat 124
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Fiat 124 (60 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (57 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 280 kg more than 1973 Fiat 124.
Because 1973 Fiat 124 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 1973 Fiat 124. 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1973 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 124 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 38 L |
