2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 1989 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Toyota MR2 (221 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2005 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Toyota MR2 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 1989 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1989 Toyota MR2 (305 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (205 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1989 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 1989 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Citroen | Toyota |
| Model | Xsara | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
