1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1970 Fiat 850

To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,868 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen Xsara (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 375 kg more than 1970 Fiat 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 Fiat 850 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 1970 Fiat 850. 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 (128 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 850. (66 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 850.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Citroen Xsara 1970 Fiat 850
Make Citroen Fiat
Model Xsara 850
Year Released 1999 1970
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1868 cc 903 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 70 HP 51 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 128 Nm 66 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1110 kg 735 kg
Vehicle Length 4360 mm 3660 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1510 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1310 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2040 mm