1988 Citroen BX vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Citroen BX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Citroen BX would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1988 Citroen BX. (71 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1120 kg more than 1988 Citroen BX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Citroen BX, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Citroen BX. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Citroen BX. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1988 Citroen BX has manual transmission. 1988 Citroen BX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Citroen BX 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model BX C
Year Released 1988 1996
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1360 cc 2799 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 71 HP 190 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 270 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 930 kg 2050 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4490 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2700 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 66 L 62 L