2008 BMW 523 vs. 1997 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 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 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 120 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 181 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 523 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 523. 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 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1997 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 523 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1761 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 55 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 15.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1099 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
