1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2002 Citroen C5
To start off, 2002 Citroen C5 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Citroen C5 (138 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Citroen C5 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, both vehicles can yield 190 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2002 Citroen C5 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Citroen C5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2002 Citroen C5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Citroen |
| Model | SLK | C5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
