1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1972 ZAZ 966
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 ZAZ 966. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 ZAZ 966 would be higher. At 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1972 ZAZ 966. (27 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1972 ZAZ 966. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 340 kg more than 1972 ZAZ 966. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 ZAZ 966 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 1972 ZAZ 966. 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 (153 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 ZAZ 966. (52 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 ZAZ 966.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1972 ZAZ 966 | |
| Make | Citroen | ZAZ |
| Model | Xsara | 966 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 885 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2170 mm |
