2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Renault 5
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Renault 5 (158 HP) has 50 more horse power than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 159 kg more than 1981 Renault 5.
Because 1981 Renault 5 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 1981 Renault 5. 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, 1981 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | Xsara | 5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1209 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 51 L |
