1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 (103 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1998 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 (134 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Citroen | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Xsara | 146 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 103 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2550 mm |
