1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2002 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2002 Smart ForTwo is newer by 4 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (60 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 2002 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 395 kg more than 2002 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Smart ForTwo 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 2002 Smart ForTwo. 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 (193 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2002 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Citroen | Smart |
| Model | Xsara | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1820 mm |
