1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Vectra (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (57 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Vectra weights approximately 34 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.
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 Opel Vectra (230 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (117 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
