2004 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Fiat 500
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 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,527 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 730 kg more than 1974 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 500 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 500. 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 (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 500 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1527 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 18 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 27 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1246 kg | 516 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 2980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 22 L |
