2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Ford Capri
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Capri would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen Xsara (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Ford Capri. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 108 kg more than 1978 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Capri 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 Ford Capri. 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 (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Capri. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Ford Capri | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Capri |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2570 mm |
