2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 804 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen Xsara. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | E |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 2052 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
