2006 Citroen Xsara vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 2006 Citroen Xsara is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 242 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volvo 242 weights approximately 48 kg more than 2006 Citroen Xsara.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 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 1986 Volvo 242. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1986 Volvo 242 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Citroen Xsara. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Volvo 242 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Citroen Xsara | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | Xsara | 242 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 97 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2660 mm |
