1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1979 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Fiesta 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 50 more horse power than 1979 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 445 kg more than 1979 Ford Fiesta. 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 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Fiesta. (65 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1979 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 65 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 55.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2300 mm |
