2004 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Renault 5
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Renault 5 (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2004 Citroen Xsara. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 429 kg more than 1978 Renault 5.
Because 1978 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 1978 Renault 5. 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, 1978 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Citroen Xsara. (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1978 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Citroen Xsara. 2004 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 5 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | Xsara | 5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1401 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 56 L |
