2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 10 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 204 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Xsara | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
