1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2011 Citroen C5

To start off, 2011 Citroen C5 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2011 Citroen C5. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2011 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Citroen C5 weights approximately 176 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK.

Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Citroen C5, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Citroen C5. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Citroen C5.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK 2011 Citroen C5
Make Mercedes-Benz Citroen
Model SLK C5
Year Released 1997 2011
Body Type Convertible Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 1749 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 134 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 160 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.4:1 11.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1270 kg 1446 kg
Vehicle Length 4000 mm 4760 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1520 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2760 mm