2009 Citroen C5 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Citroen C5 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C5. (131 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 115 kg more than 2009 Citroen C5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Citroen C5 (314 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C5 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C5 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2179 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2870 mm |
