2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Fiat 126
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 668 kg more than 1974 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 126 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 126. 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 (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 126 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 20 L |
