1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1982 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,838 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Pontiac Firebird (106 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 146 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 1982 Pontiac Firebird 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 1982 Pontiac Firebird. 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 (201 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. (196 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1982 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Citroen | Pontiac |
| Model | Xsara | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1904 cc | 2838 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2570 mm |
