1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 6 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 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP) has 175 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 659 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 2004 Ford Thunderbird 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 2004 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 2004 Ford Thunderbird 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. 2004 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 3934 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 249 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2760 mm |
