2002 Citroen C3 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 10 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 680 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 2012 Lexus IS 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 2012 Lexus IS. 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, 2012 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3. 2012 Lexus IS 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. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Citroen | Lexus |
| Model | C3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 65 L |
