1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1968 Ford Escort
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Escort 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 18 more horse power than 1968 Ford Escort. (56 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 281 kg more than 1968 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Ford Escort 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 1968 Ford Escort. 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford Escort. (98 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1968 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Escort |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 56 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 63 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
