2002 Citroen C3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 553 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | E |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1097 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
