1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Opel Manta
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Manta would be higher. At 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Manta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Manta (100 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Manta should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 60 kg more than 1978 Opel Manta.
Because 1978 Opel Manta 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 Opel Manta. 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, 1978 Opel Manta (135 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (128 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Manta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Manta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1868 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
