1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 500 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (58 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | Xsara | 4 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 845 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 58 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
