2003 Citroen Xsara vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (362 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 295 more horse power than 2003 Citroen Xsara. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 475 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen Xsara. (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen Xsara. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2003 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2003 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen Xsara | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
