1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart (94 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart weights approximately 285 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.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. (185 Nm). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart 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 Smart will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | Smart |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1904 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3230 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2720 mm |
