2005 Citroen C8 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Citroen C8 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2005 Citroen C8. (126 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen C8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen C8 weights approximately 423 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Citroen C8, 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 Citroen C8 (314 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen C8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen C8 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2177 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1783 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
