1997 Citroen AX vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 1997 Citroen AX is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1997 Citroen AX. (48 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 717 kg more than 1997 Citroen AX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Citroen AX, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen AX. (74 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen AX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen AX | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | AX | 240 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 954 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 668 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2800 mm |
