2001 Citroen C5 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2001 Citroen C5 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2001 Citroen C5. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Citroen C5 weights approximately 36 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Citroen C5. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Citroen C5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Citroen C5 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C5 | C |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 62 L |
