2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 145 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. 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 Citroen Xsara (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (115 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Citroen | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Xsara | 146 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 1351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 67.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 12.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
