2000 Citroen Xsara vs. 1972 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2000 Citroen Xsara is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,868 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Citroen Xsara (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1972 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 200 kg more than 1972 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Opel Ascona 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 1972 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Citroen Xsara (128 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Citroen Xsara | 1972 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1868 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
