2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Triumph TR7
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Triumph TR7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Triumph TR7 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 2 more horse power than 1978 Triumph TR7. (106 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 192 kg more than 1978 Triumph TR7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Triumph TR7 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 Triumph TR7. 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, 1978 Triumph TR7 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Citroen | Triumph |
| Model | Xsara | TR7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 106 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1237 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
