2001 Citroen Xsara vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 2001 Citroen Xsara is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,527 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 296 kg more than 1979 Renault 12. 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, 2001 Citroen Xsara (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Citroen Xsara | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | Xsara | 12 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1527 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1246 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
