1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 10 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 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (270 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 355 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 2008 Lexus IS 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 2008 Lexus IS. 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 (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Citroen | Lexus |
| Model | Xsara | IS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2680 mm |
