2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 480 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 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 Xsara (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
