1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 7 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 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 345 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2570 mm |
