2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 Citroen Xsara

To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 3,248 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 386 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 Z4 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 Z4. 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 Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4 1997 Citroen Xsara
Make BMW Citroen
Model Z4 Xsara
Year Released 2008 1997
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3248 cc 1761 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 338 HP 55 HP
Engine RPM 7900 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 365 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 9.3:1
Top Speed 245 km/hour 177 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 5 seconds 15.4 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1485 kg 1099 kg
Vehicle Length 4120 mm 4170 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2550 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 54 L