2002 Citroen C5 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Citroen C5 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Citroen C5 (138 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 80 kg more than 2002 Citroen C5.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, both vehicles can yield 190 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C5 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C5 | E |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |
