2003 Citroen Xsara vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2003 Citroen Xsara is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Citroen Xsara (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 127 kg more than 2003 Citroen Xsara.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 2003 Citroen Xsara (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen Xsara | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | 300 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3005 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
