1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp would be higher. At 5,763 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp (296 HP) has 222 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp weights approximately 684 kg more than 1997 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp 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 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp. 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, 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp (450 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp has automatic transmission and 1997 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1997 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp | |
| Make | Citroen | De Tomaso |
| Model | Xsara | Longchamp |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 5763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 296 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1704 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2610 mm |
