1996 Volvo 850 vs. 1999 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (125 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1999 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 Volvo 850 (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Citroen Xsara. 1999 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 850 | 1999 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Volvo | Citroen |
| Model | 850 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2550 mm |
