1998 Citroen Saxo vs. 1970 Datsun 1200
To start off, 1998 Citroen Saxo is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 1200 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Saxo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Datsun 1200 (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Saxo. (58 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Datsun 1200 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Saxo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Saxo weights approximately 195 kg more than 1970 Datsun 1200.
Because 1970 Datsun 1200 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 1970 Datsun 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Saxo, 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, 1970 Datsun 1200 (95 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Saxo. (93 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1970 Datsun 1200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Saxo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Saxo | 1970 Datsun 1200 | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | Saxo | 1200 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 73.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 39 L |
