1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1980 Fiat 131
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 131 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) has 2 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 133 kg more than 1980 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Fiat 131 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 1980 Fiat 131. 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 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 131. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1980 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1980 Fiat 131 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 | 1980 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 131 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1099 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2500 mm |
