1989 Citroen XM vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Citroen XM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Citroen XM would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 186 kg more than 1989 Citroen XM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM, 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen XM. (240 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen XM.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Citroen XM | 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | XM | SL |
Year Released | 1989 | 1991 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2975 cc | 2961 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 272 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 88.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 80.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |