1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Citroen C5
To start off, 2001 Citroen C5 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2001 Citroen C5. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 530 kg more than 2001 Citroen C5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C5, 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, 2001 Citroen C5 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Citroen C5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Citroen |
| Model | C | C5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 66 L |
