1989 Citroen XM vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 19 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 30 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XM | SLK |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
