2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (74 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (43 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 281 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Ford Escort 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 1980 Ford Escort. 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 (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 53.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 144 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1184 kg | 903 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
