1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 1,904 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 170 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. 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 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (131 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1998 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1998 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1904 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2600 mm |
