2003 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2003 Citroen Xsara is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,527 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1974 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 206 kg more than 1974 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Ford Cortina 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 1974 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Citroen Xsara (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1527 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 63 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1246 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 87 L |
