1998 Citroen Xantia vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xantia is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xantia. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xantia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xantia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xantia, 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xantia. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xantia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xantia | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xantia | 420 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2460 mm |
