2004 Citroen Xsara vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen Xsara (74 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 101 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Citroen Xsara. (116 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen Xsara | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.8 seconds | 14 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
