1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 11 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 1,904 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 35 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara (201 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1904 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2570 mm |
