2009 Citroen C5 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Citroen C5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C5 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C5 weights approximately 214 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C5 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C5 | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1624 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 62 L |
