1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Fiat Panda
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 Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Panda. (34 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 390 kg more than 1981 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (153 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | Panda |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 843 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2170 mm |
