2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 87 kg more than 2009 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen Xsara. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2009 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2009 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 16.7 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1186 kg | 1273 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
