1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,608 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Fiesta (83 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 220 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 Ford Fiesta (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 34 L |
