1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 246 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
