2003 Opel Astra vs. 1999 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 310 kg more than 1999 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 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Citroen Xsara. 1999 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1999 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Opel | Citroen |
| Model | Astra | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 78.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2550 mm |
