2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP) has 50 more horse power than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 376 kg more than 2008 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Pontiac Firebird 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 1971 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen Xsara.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Citroen Xsara 1971 Pontiac Firebird
Make Citroen Pontiac
Model Xsara Firebird
Year Released 2008 1971
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1587 cc 5792 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 108 HP 158 HP
Torque 148 Nm 366 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1209 kg 1585 kg
Vehicle Length 4190 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2750 mm