1989 Citroen XM vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 10 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (130 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 544 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen XM. (177 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen XM. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1989 Citroen XM has manual transmission. 1989 Citroen XM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XM | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 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 | 1310 kg | 1854 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 3090 mm |
