1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Fiat 124
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen Xsara (89 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 124. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 250 kg more than 1974 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 124 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 1974 Fiat 124. 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 (199 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 124 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
