1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2003 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2003 Peugeot 406 is newer by 5 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Peugeot 406 (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 281 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, 2003 Peugeot 406 (197 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (153 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 2003 Peugeot 406 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. 2003 Peugeot 406 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2003 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Citroen | Peugeot |
| Model | Xsara | 406 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1361 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
