1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1973 Fiat 126
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,399 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (74 HP) has 51 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 440 kg more than 1973 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 126 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 1973 Fiat 126. 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 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1973 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 126 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 23 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.9 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1850 mm |
