1996 Citroen Xantia vs. 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1996 Citroen Xantia is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL (149 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Citroen Xantia. (109 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Citroen Xantia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 5 kg more than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Citroen Xantia, 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, 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Citroen Xantia. (156 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Citroen Xantia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Citroen Xantia | 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xantia | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1762 cc | 2306 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2410 mm |
