2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP) has 110 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (72 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 470 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 1980 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 1980 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (118 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3. 1980 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. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1358 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.2 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 90 L |
