2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,770 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 76 kg more than 1978 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. 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, both vehicles can yield 147 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1978 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 2008 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2008 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Citroen | Nissan |
| Model | Xsara | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 97 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1216 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2680 mm |
