2003 Citroen C3 vs. 2012 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2012 Lotus Elise is newer by 9 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lotus Elise (189 HP) has 130 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen C3 weights approximately 141 kg more than 2012 Lotus Elise.
Because 2012 Lotus Elise 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 2012 Lotus Elise. 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, 2012 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (95 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Citroen C3 | 2012 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Citroen | Lotus |
Model | C3 | Elise |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1124 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 189 HP |
Torque | 95 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1053 kg | 912 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3785 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1118 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2299 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 44 L |