2003 Citroen Xsara vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 Citroen Xsara. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 170 kg more than 2003 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, 2006 Kia Optima (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen Xsara. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen Xsara | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Citroen | Kia |
| Model | Xsara | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 86.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
