1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (114 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 490 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 69 L |
