1996 Honda Civic vs. 2008 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1996 Honda Civic. (104 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 116 kg more than 1996 Honda Civic. 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, 2008 Citroen Xsara (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Civic. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Civic. 2008 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1996 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1996 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Civic | 2008 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Honda | Citroen |
| Model | Civic | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1216 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
