2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 280 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | 420 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
