1987 Citroen AX vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 25 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1987 Citroen AX. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen AX.
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, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen AX. (73 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen AX. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen AX | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | AX | SL |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 954 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.2 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
