2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1984 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 269 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 1984 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1984 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1291 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2950 mm |
