1979 Citroen GSA 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 GSA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Citroen GSA would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1979 Citroen GSA. (63 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen GSA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 325 kg more than 1979 Citroen GSA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 GSA, 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 (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen GSA. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen GSA. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1979 Citroen GSA has manual transmission. 1979 Citroen GSA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Citroen GSA | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GSA | SLK |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 70 L |
