1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1988 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen Xsara (89 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 225 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1999 Citroen Xsara (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1988 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2480 mm |
