2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 270 kg more than 1978 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Nissan Skyline 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 1978 Nissan Skyline. 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 (161 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Citroen | Nissan |
| Model | Xsara | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
