2004 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Fiat 124
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 124 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 35 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 124. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 410 kg more than 1974 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 124 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 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Citroen Xsara (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 124 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 38 L |
