2003 Citroen C2 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2003 Citroen C2 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C2. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 360 kg more than 2003 Citroen C2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C2, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (171 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C2. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C2 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C2 | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1628 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 41 L | 62 L |
