2009 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Citroen Xsara. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1998 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Audi | Citroen |
| Model | A3 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2550 mm |
