2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Seat 131
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Seat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Seat 131 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1974 Seat 131. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Seat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 400 kg more than 1974 Seat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Seat 131 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 1974 Seat 131. 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 (205 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Seat 131. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Seat 131. 1974 Seat 131 has automatic transmission and 2009 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2009 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Seat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Seat |
| Model | Xsara | 131 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2500 mm |
