1974 Citroen CX vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Citroen CX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Citroen CX would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1974 Citroen CX. (95 HP @ 3700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 265 kg more than 1974 Citroen CX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Citroen CX, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen CX. (216 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen CX. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1974 Citroen CX has manual transmission. 1974 Citroen CX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Citroen CX 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model CX E
Year Released 1974 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2500 cc 3199 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 95 HP 221 HP
Engine RPM 3700 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 216 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 21.0:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 165 km/hour 233 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1520 kg 1785 kg
Vehicle Length 4960 mm 4860 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 3100 mm 2830 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 80 L