2008 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Citroen Xsara

To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (216 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (57 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1997 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 325 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 2008 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2008 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (117 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 2008 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 1997 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1997 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 325 1997 Citroen Xsara
Make BMW Citroen
Model 325 Xsara
Year Released 2008 1997
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 216 HP 57 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 117 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 5500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 78.8 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 86 mm
Top Speed 245 km/hour 220 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 7.7 seconds 8.7 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1520 kg 1190 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4170 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1820 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2550 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 54 L