2003 TVR Chimaera vs. 2009 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 TVR Chimaera (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 280 kg more than 2003 TVR Chimaera.
Because 2003 TVR Chimaera is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 TVR Chimaera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 TVR Chimaera (306 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen Xsara. 2009 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 2003 TVR Chimaera has manual transmission. 2003 TVR Chimaera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 TVR Chimaera | 2009 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | TVR | Citroen |
| Model | Chimaera | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4546 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 54 L |
