2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 924 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 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen Xsara. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1559 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1914 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
