2000 Citroen Xsara vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 2000 Citroen Xsara is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2000 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 2000 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2000 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun 280 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 1979 Datsun 280. 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Citroen Xsara. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Citroen Xsara. 2000 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Citroen Xsara | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | Xsara | 280 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1197 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2530 mm |
