1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1983 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,258 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Opel Rekord (85 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Opel Rekord weights approximately 215 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 1983 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. 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, 1983 Opel Rekord (193 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1983 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1983 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 2258 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 85 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2680 mm |
