2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1971 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1971 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 276 kg more than 1971 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Opel Ascona 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 1971 Opel Ascona. 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 (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1971 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1186 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
