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. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Fiat 131 (113 HP) has 19 more horse power than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (94 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 290 kg more than 1996 Fiat 131.
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, 1996 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen Xsara.
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 | 1586 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 113 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
