1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 329 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (128 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1868 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2620 mm |
