1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 7 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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (99 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 155 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, 2004 Ford Focus (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 2004 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1997 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1997 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Focus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 99 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
