1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP) has 173 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 535 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.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Citroen Xsara. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 2008 Audi A3 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. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Audi |
| Model | Xsara | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 247 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
