1987 Citroen AX vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 16 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1987 Citroen AX. (57 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1006 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen AX. (89 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen AX. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen AX | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | AX | E |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2860 mm |
