1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2010 Kia Optima
To start off, 2010 Kia Optima is newer by 13 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Kia Optima (175 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Kia Optima weights approximately 430 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, 2010 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2010 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 2010 Kia Optima 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. 2010 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2010 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Citroen | Kia |
| Model | Xsara | Optima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4801 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
