2003 Citroen C3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 811 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 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 387 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1628 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 383 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1986 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
