1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 25 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 Fiat 131 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 Fiat 131. 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 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (153 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 131 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2500 mm |
