1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1985 Ferrari 208
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ferrari 208 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Ferrari 208 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ferrari 208 (217 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ferrari 208 weights approximately 186 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 1985 Ferrari 208 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 1985 Ferrari 208. 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, 1985 Ferrari 208 (240 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Ferrari 208 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1985 Ferrari 208 has manual transmission. 1985 Ferrari 208 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1985 Ferrari 208 | |
| Make | Citroen | Ferrari |
| Model | Xsara | 208 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 7.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1099 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 74 L |
