2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1974 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 430 kg more than 1974 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Opel Ascona 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 Opel Ascona. 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 (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
