2004 Citroen C5 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Citroen C5 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2004 Citroen C5. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen C5 weights approximately 158 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Citroen C5. (120 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Citroen C5. 2004 Citroen C5 has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Citroen C5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C5 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C5 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1448 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |
