2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (128 HP) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 142 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen Xsara. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2008 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2008 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 128 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1237 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2430 mm |
