1988 Citroen BX vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 25 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (613 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 551 more horse power than 1988 Citroen BX. (62 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1056 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 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (999 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 890 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Citroen BX. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Citroen BX.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Citroen BX 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model BX SL
Year Released 1988 2013
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1360 cc 6000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 62 HP 613 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 109 Nm 999 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 75 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77 mm 93 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.3:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 155 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 4-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 894 kg 1950 kg
Vehicle Length 4240 mm 4633 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 2099 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2585 mm