2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1970 Lotus Seven
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Seven. (85 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 647 kg more than 1970 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Lotus Seven 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 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Citroen Xsara (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Lotus Seven. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1970 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | Xsara | Seven |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1340 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 85 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1237 kg | 590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 34 L |
