2003 Citroen Xsara vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Citroen Xsara is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Citroen Xsara (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 408 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2003 Citroen Xsara (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen Xsara | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2480 mm |
