2009 Citroen C5 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2009 Citroen C5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C5. (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 119 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 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 410 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C5. (290 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C5.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Citroen C5 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model C5 SL
Year Released 2009 2001
Body Type Station Wagon Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2946 cc 5437 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 208 HP 469 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 290 Nm 700 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 2650 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 97 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.6 mm 92 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.9:1 9.0:1
Top Speed 222 km/hour 250 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 10.9 seconds 4.7 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1836 kg 1955 kg
Vehicle Length 4840 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1520 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2820 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 71 L 80 L