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 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (74 HP) has 34 more horse power than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP). 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 281 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 (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (100 Nm @ 1800 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 | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 40 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.9 mm | 65.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1820 mm |
