1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (125 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 279 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 Volvo 850 (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (128 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | Xsara | 850 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1868 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2670 mm |
