2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 1996 Fiat 131
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat 131 would be higher. Both 2005 Citroen Xsara and 1996 Fiat 131 are equipped with a 1,995 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen Xsara (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 131. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 223 kg more than 1996 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Fiat 131 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 1996 Fiat 131. 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 1996 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 131 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 50 L |
