2001 Citroen C3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Citroen C3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Citroen C3 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 402 more horse power than 2001 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 87 kg more than 2001 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C3, 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 715 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Citroen C3. (115 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Citroen C3. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2001 Citroen C3 has manual transmission. 2001 Citroen C3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Citroen C3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1138 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
