1996 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 9 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen Xsara (134 HP) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 267 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. 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, 2005 Citroen Xsara (190 Nm) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2005 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2005 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2005 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Audi | Citroen |
| Model | A3 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2770 mm |
