1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1984 Vauxhall Chevette
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Vauxhall Chevette would be higher. At 1,904 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1984 Vauxhall Chevette. (56 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1984 Vauxhall Chevette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 335 kg more than 1984 Vauxhall Chevette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Vauxhall Chevette 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 1984 Vauxhall Chevette. 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 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Vauxhall Chevette. (92 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Vauxhall Chevette.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1984 Vauxhall Chevette | |
| Make | Citroen | Vauxhall |
| Model | Xsara | Chevette |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1904 cc | 1256 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2400 mm |
