1987 Citroen AX vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Citroen AX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Citroen AX would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1987 Citroen AX. (100 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1050 kg more than 1987 Citroen AX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Citroen AX, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen AX. (120 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen AX. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1987 Citroen AX has manual transmission. 1987 Citroen AX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen AX | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | AX | SL |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2570 mm |
