2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 1996 Renault Spider
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Spider would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Spider (141 HP) has 47 more horse power than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (94 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Spider should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 325 kg more than 1996 Renault Spider.
Because 1996 Renault Spider 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 1996 Renault Spider. 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, 1996 Renault Spider (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Renault Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 1996 Renault Spider | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | Xsara | Spider |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2350 mm |
