2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 270 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (200 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen Xsara. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2005 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2005 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | 300 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3080 mm |
