1978 Citroen LN vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Citroen LN. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Citroen LN would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 458 more horse power than 1978 Citroen LN. (35 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Citroen LN. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1270 kg more than 1978 Citroen LN. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Citroen LN, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 650 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Citroen LN. (50 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Citroen LN. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1978 Citroen LN has manual transmission. 1978 Citroen LN will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Citroen LN | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | LN | SL |
Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 35 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 50 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 710 kg | 1980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 80 L |