2003 Citroen C5 vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Citroen C5 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C5. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2003 Citroen C5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C5. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C5 | 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C5 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 95 L |
