2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 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 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 231 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 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, 2009 Citroen Xsara (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | Xsara | 131 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 7.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1291 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2500 mm |
