2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1969 Fiat 500
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (74 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1969 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1969 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 674 kg more than 1969 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Fiat 500 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 1969 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Citroen Xsara (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1969 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 500 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 18 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 27 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1184 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 22 L |
