2003 Citroen C3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (175 HP) has 116 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 612 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 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (95 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3. 2005 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| 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 | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 65 L |
