1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1987 Peugeot 309
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Peugeot 309 would be higher. At 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Peugeot 309 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Peugeot 309 (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Peugeot 309 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 169 kg more than 1987 Peugeot 309.
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, 1987 Peugeot 309 (161 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Peugeot 309 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1987 Peugeot 309 has manual transmission. 1987 Peugeot 309 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 | 1987 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Citroen | Peugeot |
| Model | Xsara | 309 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.4 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1099 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
