2004 Citroen Xsara vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen Xsara (94 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 420 kg more than 1973 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, 2004 Citroen Xsara (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen Xsara | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | Xsara | 12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 56 L |
