1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xsara (74 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 Volkswagen 1600. 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, both vehicles can yield 110 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 40 L |
