1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1976 Ford Cortina

To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (90 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 86 kg more than 1976 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1976 Ford Cortina 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 1976 Ford Cortina. 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 (193 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (122 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Citroen Xsara 1976 Ford Cortina
Make Citroen Ford
Model Xsara Cortina
Year Released 1998 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 1593 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 165 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 193 Nm 122 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Vehicle Weight 1200 kg 1114 kg
Vehicle Length 4180 mm 4490 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2590 mm