2004 Citroen C5 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 2004 Citroen C5. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 580 kg more than 2004 Citroen C5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 378 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Citroen C5. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C5 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 5956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 375 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 94.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 5.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |
