2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 670 kg more than 2003 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2940 mm |
