1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 65 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 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 (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 1998 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
