2001 Citroen C2 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2001 Citroen C2 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen C2 (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C2 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 575 kg more than 2001 Citroen C2.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C2, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Citroen C2. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Citroen C2. 2001 Citroen C2 has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Citroen C2 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Citroen C2 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C2 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 41 L | 65 L |
