2001 Citroen Xsara vs. 1988 Citroen BX
To start off, 2001 Citroen Xsara is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Citroen BX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Citroen BX would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen Xsara (106 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1988 Citroen BX. (71 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1988 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 318 kg more than 1988 Citroen BX. 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, 2001 Citroen Xsara (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Citroen BX. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Citroen BX. 2001 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1988 Citroen BX has manual transmission. 1988 Citroen BX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Citroen Xsara | 1988 Citroen BX | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | Xsara | BX |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 66 L |
