1998 Citroen Xantia vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xantia is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 331 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xantia. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xantia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 85 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 1997 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xantia, 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 577 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xantia. (142 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xantia. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 1998 Citroen Xantia has manual transmission. 1998 Citroen Xantia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen W12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xantia | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xantia | W12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2550 mm |
