2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 924 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 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2009 Citroen Xsara (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Xsara | S |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1291 kg | 2215 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2870 mm |