2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Vauxhall Chevette
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Vauxhall Chevette would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 361 kg more than 1978 Vauxhall Chevette.
Because 1978 Vauxhall Chevette 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 Vauxhall Chevette. 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 (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Vauxhall Chevette. (89 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Vauxhall Chevette.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Vauxhall Chevette | |
| Make | Citroen | Vauxhall |
| Model | Xsara | Chevette |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1255 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 56 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1216 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
