1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (115 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 227 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
