1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1983 Fiat 131
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Fiat 131 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 19 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 30 kg more than 1983 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara (153 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1983 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 131 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1050 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 |
