1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 55 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 324 kg more than 1978 Toyota Starlet.
Because 1978 Toyota Starlet 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 Toyota Starlet. 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (84 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Starlet. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1978 Toyota Starlet has manual transmission. 1978 Toyota Starlet 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 | 1978 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Citroen | Toyota |
| Model | Xsara | Starlet |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1099 kg | 775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
