2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1997 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 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 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (57 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 181 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.
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, 2009 Citroen C3 (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1997 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | C3 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1749 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 13.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1252 kg | 1071 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 54 L |
