1990 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1997 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,962 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider (120 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 140 kg more than 1997 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider (157 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1997 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Citroen |
| Model | Spider | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1962 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 14.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2550 mm |
