1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima 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 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (57 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 810 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, 2006 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (117 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Citroen | Kia |
| Model | Xsara | Optima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
