2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (106 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 606 kg more than 1981 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Citroen | Suzuki |
| Model | Xsara | Alto |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1216 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2160 mm |
