1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (148 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 485 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 BMW 320 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 2008 BMW 320. 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, 2008 BMW 320 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 2008 BMW 320 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 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Citroen | BMW |
| Model | Xsara | 320 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
