1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2006 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2006 Citroen Xsara is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP) has 209 more horse power than 2006 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 762 kg more than 2006 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 323 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Citroen Xsara. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2006 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Citroen |
| Model | S | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
