1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 14 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 120 (170 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 120 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 2012 BMW 120 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 2012 BMW 120. 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, 2012 BMW 120 (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Citroen | BMW |
| Model | Xsara | 120 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2660 mm |
