1989 Citroen XM vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 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 1,904 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (182 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (130 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 53 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 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (250 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen XM. (177 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen XM. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XM | SLK |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1904 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1382 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2431 mm |
