2009 Citroen C5 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Citroen C5 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,179 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C5 (131 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C5 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 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, 2009 Citroen C5 (314 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. (171 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C5 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C5 | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2179 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 62 L |
