1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 61 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1099 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
