1997 Citroen AX vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Citroen AX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Citroen AX would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1997 Citroen AX. (48 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 657 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Citroen AX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen AX. (74 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen AX. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1997 Citroen AX has manual transmission. 1997 Citroen AX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen AX | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | AX | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 954 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 668 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2770 mm |
