1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 210 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 SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (153 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
