1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 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), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP) has 84 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 172 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Xsara | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 50 L |
