2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP) has 92 more horse power than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 223 kg more than 2008 Citroen Xsara. 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen Xsara. 2012 Audi A3 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. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Audi |
| Model | Xsara | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1237 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
