1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta 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 4 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 520 kg more than 1981 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 (190 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 34 L |
