2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 174 kg more than 2009 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1186 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
