2003 Citroen C vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Citroen C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Citroen C would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (156 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C. (58 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C, 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 C (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C. (94 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2003 Citroen C has manual transmission. 2003 Citroen C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 41 L | 66 L |
