1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1996 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Skoda Octavia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Skoda Octavia would be higher. At 1,904 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Skoda Octavia (125 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 75 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara (201 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Skoda Octavia. (169 Nm @ 3530 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Skoda Octavia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1996 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Citroen | Skoda |
| Model | Xsara | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1904 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3530 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
