1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,777 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 516 kg more than 1997 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | SE |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 2777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1099 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
