1981 Citroen LN vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Citroen LN. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Citroen LN would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1981 Citroen LN. (35 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1981 Citroen LN. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 580 kg more than 1981 Citroen LN. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Citroen LN. (50 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Citroen LN. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1981 Citroen LN has manual transmission. 1981 Citroen LN will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Citroen LN | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | LN | SLK |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 50 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 70 L |
