1979 Citroen CX vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS

To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 27 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 3,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1979 Citroen CX. (107 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 330 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen CX. (166 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen CX. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1979 Citroen CX has manual transmission. 1979 Citroen CX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Citroen CX 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model CX CLS
Year Released 1979 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 3495 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 107 HP 268 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 166 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87.9 mm 92.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.2:1 10.7:1
Top Speed 165 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1400 kg 1730 kg
Vehicle Length 4970 mm 4920 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 3100 mm 2720 mm