Compromised Internals

Overview Specs Highlights Characteristics

Overview

The Citroën Xsara Kit Car was developed for the FIA’s Formula 2 (F2) Kit Car class in the late 1990s and quickly became one of the most successful tarmac-only rally machines ever built. Based on the Xsara road car, it featured a widened body, highly tuned naturally aspirated engine, and state-of-the-art suspension. Though restricted to two-wheel drive, it regularly embarrassed World Rally Cars on asphalt rallies thanks to its light weight, razor-sharp response, and powerful engine. It laid the foundation for Citroën’s future WRC success.

Technical Specs & Innovations

Citroën's engineers optimized every element for asphalt performance, resulting in a front-wheel-drive car that could outperform AWD rivals in specific conditions. Its engine was among the most powerful NA 2.0L units in rallying history.

🏆 Competitive Highlights

1999 Rally Catalunya & Tour de Corse Overall Wins — Philippe Bugalski shocked the WRC world with back-to-back asphalt victories against full-spec WRC teams.
French Rally Championship Titles — Dominant national performances by Bugalski and Sébastien Loeb.
Its wins marked the last time a FWD car claimed outright WRC victories, demonstrating its unmatched tarmac specialization.

The Xsara Kit Car embarrassed bigger-budget rivals and positioned Citroën as a rising force in international rallying — leading directly to their full WRC program.

Driving Characteristics

The car demanded aggressive but precise inputs. Its high-revving engine required momentum conservation, while the ultra-wide track gave it phenomenal grip in corners. It lacked the traction of AWD, but made up for it with incredible braking, turn-in, and mid-corner speed on smooth surfaces.

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