1974 Citroen CX vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 398 more horse power than 1974 Citroen CX. (95 HP @ 3700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 520 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 SL 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 SL. 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 SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 584 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen CX. (216 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen CX. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen CX | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CX | SL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
