1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2006 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 101 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 Volkswagen Polo (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 95.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.4 seconds | 10.7 seconds |
| 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 | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
