1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 286 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, 2011 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 2011 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2011 Opel Astra 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 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.4 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1099 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 52 L |
