1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Ford Taunus
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 Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Taunus (57 HP) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Taunus should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 79 kg more than 1981 Ford Taunus.
Because 1981 Ford Taunus 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 Ford Taunus. 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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Taunus. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Taunus has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Taunus 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 | 1981 Ford Taunus | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Taunus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 57 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1099 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
