1990 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2005 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 15 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen Xsara (161 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 79 kg more than 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider. 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, 2005 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, 2005 Citroen Xsara (200 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider. (157 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2005 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Citroen |
| Model | Spider | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1962 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 8 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 | 1239 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
