2005 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 1,909 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1998 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Audi | Citroen |
| Model | A3 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2550 mm |
