1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 5,789 cc (12 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (362 HP) has 288 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 874 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (540 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 427 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1998 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1998 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Citroen Xsara 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model Xsara S
Year Released 1998 1999
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1360 cc 5789 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 74 HP 362 HP
Torque 113 Nm 540 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 74.9 mm 84.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77 mm 87 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1086 kg 1960 kg
Vehicle Length 4170 mm 5160 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 3090 mm