2009 BMW 120 vs. 1997 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (168 HP) has 94 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 306 kg more than 1997 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 BMW 120 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1997 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 120 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 54 L |
