1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Morgan 4
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Morgan 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Morgan 4 would be higher. At 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Morgan 4 (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Morgan 4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 274 kg more than 1981 Morgan 4.
Because 1981 Morgan 4 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 Morgan 4. 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, 1981 Morgan 4 (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Morgan 4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1981 Morgan 4 has manual transmission. 1981 Morgan 4 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 Morgan 4 | |
| Make | Citroen | Morgan |
| Model | Xsara | 4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1099 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
