2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP) has 167 more horse power than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 563 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 1986 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 1986 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen Xsara. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2008 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 5547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 275 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 422 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1237 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2950 mm |
