1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2010 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 215 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 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2010 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2010 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.4 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1099 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
