2003 Citroen C3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 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 2,146 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 161 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2146 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1379 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.2 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
