2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Fiat 124
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 31 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen Xsara (134 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 124. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 471 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, 2005 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, 2005 Citroen Xsara (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 124. 2005 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1974 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1974 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 124 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1401 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 38 L |
