2001 Citroen Xsara vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Citroen Xsara is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 160 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2001 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
