1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 9 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (384 HP) has 310 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 920 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 280 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 384 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 280 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |
