1989 Citroen XM vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 89 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XM | C |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
