1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2011 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2011 Lotus Exige is newer by 14 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Exige (257 HP) has 183 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 111 kg more than 2011 Lotus Exige.
Because 2011 Lotus Exige 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 2011 Lotus Exige. 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, 2011 Lotus Exige (236 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2011 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | Xsara | Exige |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 257 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| 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 | 909 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3797 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1727 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1158 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2299 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 44 L |
