1974 Citroen CX vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 35 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 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1974 Citroen CX. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 293 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen CX. (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen CX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen CX | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CX | CLK |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1372 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
