1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1986 Ford Sierra
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 1,769 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Sierra (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Sierra should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 85 kg more than 1986 Ford Sierra.
Because 1986 Ford Sierra 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 1986 Ford Sierra. 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, 1986 Ford Sierra (143 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Sierra has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Sierra 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 | 1986 Ford Sierra | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Sierra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1099 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2620 mm |
