1987 Citroen AX vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 560 more horse power than 1987 Citroen AX. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1388 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 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 925 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen AX. (73 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen AX. 2004 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen AX | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | AX | SL |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 954 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 998 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.2 seconds | 3.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 722 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 15.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
