1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (340 HP) has 266 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi weights approximately 413 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi 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 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. 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, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (451 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi | |
| Make | Citroen | Ferrari |
| Model | Xsara | 512 BBi |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 4942 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 340 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 451 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.9 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
