2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1979 Fiat 131
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (71 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 8 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Fiat 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 1979 Fiat 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, 1979 Fiat 131 (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen Xsara. 1979 Fiat 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. 1979 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1979 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 131 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2443 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 71 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2500 mm |
