1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 473 kg more than 1999 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, 2011 Kia Optima (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (128 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Citroen Xsara. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1999 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1999 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Citroen | Kia |
| Model | Xsara | Optima |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1868 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2797 mm |
