1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (57 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 205 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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (321 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (117 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| 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 | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
