1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1975 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Triumph Spitfire 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 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 300 kg more than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Triumph Spitfire 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 1975 Triumph Spitfire. 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1975 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Citroen | Triumph |
| Model | Xsara | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2110 mm |
