2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Ford Capri
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Capri would be higher. At 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Ford Capri. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 330 kg more than 1978 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Capri 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 1978 Ford Capri. 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 (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Capri. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Ford Capri | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Capri |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
