1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 245 kg more than 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara (193 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (136 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Xsara | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2270 mm |
