2001 Citroen Xsara vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2001 Citroen Xsara. (69 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2001 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 366 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Citroen Xsara. (120 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Citroen Xsara | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | SLK |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
