1986 Citroen BX vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Citroen BX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Citroen BX would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 296 more horse power than 1986 Citroen BX. (197 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 675 kg more than 1986 Citroen BX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Citroen BX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Citroen BX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 406 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Citroen BX. (294 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Citroen BX. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1986 Citroen BX has manual transmission. 1986 Citroen BX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Citroen BX | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | BX | SL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2139 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
