2006 Citroen Xsara vs. 1970 Volkswagen 1600

To start off, 2006 Citroen Xsara is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Citroen Xsara (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 426 kg more than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 Volkswagen 1600 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 1970 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Citroen Xsara (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. 2006 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1970 Volkswagen 1600 has manual transmission. 1970 Volkswagen 1600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Citroen Xsara 1970 Volkswagen 1600
Make Citroen Volkswagen
Model Xsara 1600
Year Released 2006 1970
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1997 cc 1584 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Horse Power 134 HP 52 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 4100 RPM 2200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85.1 mm 85.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 69 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 7.7:1
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 975 kg
Vehicle Length 4280 mm 4230 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1640 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 40 L