2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Opel Manta
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Manta would be higher. At 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Manta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1978 Opel Manta. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 168 kg more than 1978 Opel Manta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Manta 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 Opel Manta. 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 (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Manta. (135 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Manta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 50 L |
