2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 795 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 4965 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 88 L |
