1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2006 BMW 523
To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 9 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 118 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Because 2006 BMW 523 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 2006 BMW 523. 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, 2006 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (117 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 2006 BMW 523 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. 2006 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2006 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Citroen | BMW |
| Model | Xsara | 523 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
