2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,195 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE (118 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 118 kg more than 2002 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Citroen C3 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2002 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. 2002 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE has manual transmission. 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | SE |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1257 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
