1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Nissan Violet

To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Violet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Violet would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen Xsara (87 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Violet. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Violet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 444 kg more than 1978 Nissan Violet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Nissan Violet 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 1978 Nissan Violet. 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 (190 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Violet. (113 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Violet.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Citroen Xsara 1978 Nissan Violet
Make Citroen Nissan
Model Xsara Violet
Year Released 1999 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1997 cc 1397 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 87 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 113 Nm
Torque RPM 1900 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 876 kg
Vehicle Length 4280 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1610 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2410 mm