2001 Citroen C5 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Citroen C5 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2001 Citroen C5. (207 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 7 kg more than 2001 Citroen C5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C5, 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (330 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Citroen C5. (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Citroen C5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Citroen C5 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C5 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2950 mm |
