2003 Citroen Xsara vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2003 Citroen Xsara is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,308 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2003 Citroen Xsara. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 248 kg more than 2003 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 (179 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen Xsara. (161 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen Xsara | 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | 230 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 2308 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 5340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3400 mm |
