2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen Xsara (161 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 121 kg more than 2005 Citroen Xsara.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (200 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | 230 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1239 kg | 1360 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.3 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
