1996 Citroen Saxo vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Citroen Saxo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Citroen Saxo would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 Citroen Saxo. (118 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Citroen Saxo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 785 kg more than 1996 Citroen Saxo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Citroen Saxo, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Citroen Saxo. (145 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Citroen Saxo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Citroen Saxo | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Saxo | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 3090 mm |
