2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1988 Lada Niva
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lada Niva would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (94 HP) has 13 more horse power than 1988 Lada Niva. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 165 kg more than 1988 Lada Niva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Citroen Xsara. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Lada Niva will offer significantly more control. 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 (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1988 Lada Niva | |
| Make | Citroen | Lada |
| Model | Xsara | Niva |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1568 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
