2004 Citroen C5 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Citroen C5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen C5 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 356 kg more than 2004 Citroen C5.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Citroen C5. (110 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Citroen C5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C5 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C5 | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1694 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 62 L |
