2003 Citroen C2 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E
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 E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP) has 277 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C2. (72 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 720 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 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 E (531 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 421 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C2. (110 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C2. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2003 Citroen C2 has manual transmission. 2003 Citroen C2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C2 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C2 | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 349 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 169 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.6 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 41 L | 80 L |
