1985 Citroen CX vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 27 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 1985 Citroen CX. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 680 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 371 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Citroen CX. (159 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Citroen CX. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Citroen CX | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CX | SL |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
