2001 Citroen Xsara vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2001 Citroen Xsara is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2001 Citroen Xsara. (106 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2001 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 163 kg more than 2001 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, 2001 Citroen Xsara (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2001 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour 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 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Contour |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 54 L |
