2002 Citroen C3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 328 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 756 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 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (600 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | E |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| 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 Weight | 1080 kg | 1836 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 66 L |
