2001 Citroen Xsara vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2001 Citroen Xsara is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2001 Citroen Xsara. (106 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2001 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2001 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Citroen Xsara (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2001 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Citroen Xsara | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | 280 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 78 L |
