2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 125 kg more than 2008 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Citroen Xsara (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1972 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1291 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2760 mm |
