1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1958 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1958 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1958 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 535 kg more than 1958 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Lotus Elite 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 1958 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Citroen Xsara (153 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Lotus Elite. (105 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1958 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | Xsara | Elite |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2240 mm |
