1996 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,868 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 84 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Audi A3 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (128 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1998 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Audi | Citroen |
| Model | A3 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1868 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2550 mm |
