2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 999 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 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2003 Citroen C3 has manual transmission. 2003 Citroen C3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 156 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 17.3 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1053 kg | 2052 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
