1985 Citroen CX vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Citroen CX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Citroen CX would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (185 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1985 Citroen CX. (168 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1985 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 556 kg more than 1985 Citroen CX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1985 Citroen CX (300 Nm) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (271 Nm). This means 1985 Citroen CX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1985 Citroen CX has manual transmission. 1985 Citroen CX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Citroen CX | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CX | SLK |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 2050 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2810 mm |
