1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2012 Volvo C30

To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 15 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo C30 weights approximately 357 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, 2012 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 2012 Volvo C30 has manual transmission. 2012 Volvo C30 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 2012 Volvo C30
Make Citroen Volvo
Model Xsara C30
Year Released 1997 2012
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1761 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 55 HP 227 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 1500 RPM
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1099 kg 1456 kg
Vehicle Length 4170 mm 4252 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1783 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1448 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2639 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 60 L