1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 1,868 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 344 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 Volkswagen Jetta (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (128 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1868 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2651 mm |
