2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Citroen C5

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Citroen C5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Citroen C5 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 372 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C5. (138 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 645 kg more than 2002 Citroen C5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C5, 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 640 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C5. (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C5.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 2002 Citroen C5
Make Mercedes-Benz Citroen
Model SL C5
Year Released 2008 2002
Body Type Convertible Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5513 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 510 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 830 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 1900 RPM 4100 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 85.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 87 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 11.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 2045 kg 1400 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4770 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1530 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 66 L