2001 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2001 Citroen Xsara is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen Xsara (106 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 182 kg more than 2001 Citroen Xsara.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2001 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 has manual transmission. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | 240 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3005 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.4 seconds | 19.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
