1979 Citroen CX vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1979 Citroen CX is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Citroen CX. (107 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 220 kg more than 1979 Citroen CX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen CX. (166 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen CX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Citroen CX | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CX | S |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 107 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2870 mm |
