2003 Citroen C3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (246 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 815 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 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 417 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1628 cc | 3997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 246 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 88 L |
