1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 421 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 125 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 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 693 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Citroen Xsara. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | S |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3170 mm |
