1976 Citroen CX vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Citroen CX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Citroen CX would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1976 Citroen CX. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1976 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 450 kg more than 1976 Citroen CX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Citroen CX. (186 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Citroen CX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Citroen CX | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CX | SL |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2345 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
