2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1998 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP) has 141 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 419 kg more than 1998 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1998 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1998 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1998 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Chrysler | Citroen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
