2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (118 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 427 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 280. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2002 Citroen C3 has manual transmission. 2002 Citroen C3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1133 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2940 mm |
