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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 241 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1995 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1401 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
