2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 630 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3. 2003 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2950 mm |
