1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,972 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (237 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (57 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 444 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (402 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 1997 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1997 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | 500 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 4972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 402 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.1 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1071 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |
