1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 11 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 551 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Citroen Xsara 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model Xsara E
Year Released 1997 2008
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1761 cc 2996 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 55 HP 228 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 300 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83 mm 88 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81.4 mm 82.1 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.3:1 11.1:1
Top Speed 177 km/hour 250 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 15.4 seconds 7.3 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1099 kg 1650 kg
Vehicle Length 4170 mm 4820 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 65 L