2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1988 TVR S2
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 TVR S2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 TVR S2 would be higher. At 2,933 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 TVR S2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 TVR S2 (168 HP) has 94 more horse power than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 TVR S2 should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 201 kg more than 1988 TVR S2.
Because 1988 TVR S2 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 1988 TVR S2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1988 TVR S2 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1988 TVR S2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1988 TVR S2 | |
| Make | Citroen | TVR |
| Model | Xsara | S2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1359 cc | 2933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 168 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 72 mm |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2290 mm |
