1998 Citroen AX vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Citroen AX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Citroen AX would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 613 more horse power than 1998 Citroen AX. (48 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 697 kg more than 1998 Citroen AX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen AX, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 925 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen AX. (75 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen AX. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Citroen AX has manual transmission. 1998 Citroen AX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen AX | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | AX | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 954 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 661 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 75 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 668 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2570 mm |
