2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 331 kg more than 2005 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (205 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1279 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 85 L |
