2002 Citroen C3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Citroen C3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Citroen C3 would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3. 2003 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 4964 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 | 5600 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 88 L |
