2008 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1998 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 161 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 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, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 1998 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt has manual transmission. 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1998 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Citroen |
| Model | Cobalt | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2550 mm |
