1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1956 Ford Prefect
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (74 HP) has 43 more horse power than 1956 Ford Prefect. (31 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 321 kg more than 1956 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Ford Prefect 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 1956 Ford Prefect. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2150 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1956 Ford Prefect | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Prefect |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 31 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2150 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.9 mm | 63.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 92.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2220 mm |
