2002 Citroen C3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 530 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1030 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 878 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 998 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 80 L |
