2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 (80 HP) has 8 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (72 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 365 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 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (118 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1358 cc | 3005 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 80 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
