2000 Citroen Xsara vs. 1980 Fiat 126
To start off, 2000 Citroen Xsara is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Citroen Xsara (72 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 495 kg more than 1980 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Fiat 126 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 1980 Fiat 126. 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 (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Citroen Xsara | 1980 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 126 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 24 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1850 mm |
