1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1973 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1973 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 190 kg more than 1973 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Opel Ascona 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 1973 Opel Ascona. 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 (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1973 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
