2003 Citroen C3 vs. 2005 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Citroen C3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Citroen C3 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (240 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3.
Because 2005 Lotus Exige 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 2005 Lotus Exige. 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, 2005 Lotus Exige (237 Nm @ 7000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 2005 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | C3 | Exige |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
