1996 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (57 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 318 weights approximately 255 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 1996 BMW 318 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 1996 BMW 318. 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, 1996 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (117 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 318 | 1997 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 318 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
