2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1973 Fiat 124
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,559 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 124. (60 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 478 kg more than 1973 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 124 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 1973 Fiat 124. 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 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1973 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 124 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1559 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1388 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 38 L |
