2004 Citroen C2 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Citroen C2 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2004 Citroen C2. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen C2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 880 kg more than 2004 Citroen C2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Citroen C2, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Citroen C2. (94 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Citroen C2. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2004 Citroen C2 has manual transmission. 2004 Citroen C2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C2 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C2 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 158 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 16.1 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 41 L | 80 L |
