2006 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Fiat 131
To start off, 2006 Citroen Xsara is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Citroen Xsara (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 300 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 131. 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 (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 131 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2500 mm |
