2006 Citroen Xsara vs. 1986 Peugeot 309
To start off, 2006 Citroen Xsara is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Peugeot 309 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Citroen Xsara (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1986 Peugeot 309. (115 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1986 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 471 kg more than 1986 Peugeot 309. 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, 2006 Citroen Xsara (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Peugeot 309. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Peugeot 309. 2006 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1986 Peugeot 309 has manual transmission. 1986 Peugeot 309 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Citroen Xsara | 1986 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Citroen | Peugeot |
| Model | Xsara | 309 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1401 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2480 mm |
