2002 Citroen Xsara vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (361 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 272 more horse power than 2002 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 295 kg more than 2002 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (500 Nm) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen Xsara. (135 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen Xsara | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | SLK |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 361 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1246 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |
