2003 Citroen C3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 187 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Citroen C3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1138 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 66 L |
