2004 Citroen Xsara vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 335 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. 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, 2004 Citroen Xsara (255 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen Xsara | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
