1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 650 kg more than 1999 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (211 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Citroen Xsara. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1999 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.9 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2520 mm |
