2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra 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 25 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 170 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
