1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Fiat 126
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xsara (57 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 605 kg more than 1981 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Fiat 126 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 1981 Fiat 126. 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Fiat 126 | |
Make | Citroen | Fiat |
Model | Xsara | 126 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 652 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 57 HP | 24 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 117 Nm | 42 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1390 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1850 mm |