1998 Citroen Saxo vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Citroen Saxo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Citroen Saxo would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Saxo. (117 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Saxo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1120 kg more than 1998 Citroen Saxo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Saxo, 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 SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 685 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Saxo. (145 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Saxo. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Citroen Saxo has manual transmission. 1998 Citroen Saxo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Saxo | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Saxo | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 2045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2570 mm |
