1996 Citroen ZX vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Citroen ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Citroen ZX would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (305 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1996 Citroen ZX. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 Citroen ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 665 kg more than 1996 Citroen ZX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Citroen ZX, 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 CLS (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Citroen ZX. (155 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Citroen ZX. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1996 Citroen ZX has manual transmission. 1996 Citroen ZX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Citroen ZX | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | ZX | CLS |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1580 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 305 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 155 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4940 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1882 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1417 mm |