2003 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Renault 5
To start off, 2003 Citroen Xsara is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Renault 5 (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2003 Citroen Xsara. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 220 kg more than 1981 Renault 5.
Because 1981 Renault 5 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 1981 Renault 5. 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, 1981 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen Xsara. (161 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | Xsara | 5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2460 mm |
