2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1976 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Cortina 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 44 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (90 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 213 kg more than 1976 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Ford Cortina 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 1976 Ford Cortina. 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (122 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1976 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 54 L |
