2002 Lotus Elise vs. 2011 Citroen C3
To start off, 2011 Citroen C3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (134 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2011 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2011 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Citroen C3 weights approximately 652 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Because 2002 Lotus Elise 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 2002 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 Citroen C3 (245 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lotus Elise. (175 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 2011 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Elise | 2011 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Citroen |
| Model | Elise | C3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 756 kg | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 50 L |
