1979 Citroen CX vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Citroen CX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Citroen CX would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (160 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1979 Citroen CX. (107 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Citroen CX weights approximately 10 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen CX. (166 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen CX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Citroen CX | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CX | SLK |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 107 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.9 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2440 mm |
