2002 Citroen C3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (156 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | C |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 66 L |
