1989 Citroen XM vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 285 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen XM. (225 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen XM. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XM | SLK |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1905 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
