1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (193 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Xsara | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
