2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 81 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
