2002 Citroen C3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (168 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 518 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | E |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| 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 Weight | 1152 kg | 1670 kg |
