1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Triumph Dolomite
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Triumph Dolomite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Triumph Dolomite would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen Xsara (74 HP) has 17 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Dolomite. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Dolomite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 138 kg more than 1978 Triumph Dolomite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Triumph Dolomite 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 Triumph Dolomite. 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 (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Dolomite. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Dolomite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Triumph Dolomite | |
| Make | Citroen | Triumph |
| Model | Xsara | Dolomite |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 57 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.9 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2460 mm |
