1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Fiat 131
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 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 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 25 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 135 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 131 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 131. 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 131 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.6 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2500 mm |
