2004 Citroen Xsara vs. 1989 Ford Escort

To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen Xsara (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.

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 (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort. 2004 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Escort 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 1989 Ford Escort
Make Citroen Ford
Model Xsara Escort
Year Released 2004 1989
Body Type Hatchback Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1997 cc 1390 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 134 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 109 Nm
Torque RPM 4100 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4280 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1640 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 54 L