1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 675 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 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (193 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 2002 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3090 mm |
