1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (109 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara (193 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | 300 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2810 mm |
