1996 Opel Astra vs. 2004 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 31 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. 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, 2004 Citroen Xsara (255 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2004 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2004 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Opel | Citroen |
| Model | Astra | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.5 seconds | 11.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1291 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 54 L |
