The Citroen Xsara Picasso 1.6i 16v with a Avondale Argente 390-2 with an actual weight of 1150 kg is in general a good match and suitable for journeys on most kinds of roads, sometimes with some limitations in the mountains.
The motor preformance of the Citroen is in general sufficient. And also the weight of the Avondale with a User Payload (161 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is pretty good.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
181
79
Mountains
Risk of snaking
169
170
Weight ratio: 75% (86% of kerbweight)
1150 kg
1543 kg
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The engine's performance is generally fairly good on flat roads (performance score to compare 181 points).
Speeds of 66 mph (107 km/h) to 73 mph (117 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is only very moderate power at low engine speeds (score to compare 79 points).
Slightly higher revs (3100 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 24.7 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally fairly good (score to compare 169 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads but the performance is not that great. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 11%, but do require some experience from the driver.
On motorway inclines higher revs (5700 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 56 mph (91 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Citroen is sufficient (check this in your vehicle documents).
If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997, a B driving license is enough.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 75%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 86%.
There is a small chance of snaking at higher speeds, strong side winds and thoughtless driving. Even if the combination normally feels stable, the forces by deflection side to side are great at high speed. For drivers with knowledge of, and experience in driving a caravan it is safe to drive, but proper and careful loading is still important! An electronic stability system in the car and / or on the caravan is worth considering.
Recommended noseweight is 70 kg.
Safe speed up to 62 mph (100 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 170 points.
If the caravan starts to snake you should reduce your speed and slow down directly! Lift your feet off the accelerator and brake gradually. Hold the steering wheel into a fixed position.
Conclusion
Performance is sufficient.
If the caravan is well loaded safe driving is possible.
It's a good match, sometimes with some limitations in the mountains.
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.