1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1975 Fiat 124
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 124. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 104 kg more than 1975 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Fiat 124 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 1975 Fiat 124. 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 (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1975 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 124 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
