2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 70 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 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 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
