2003 Citroen C3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (254 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 473 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 90 L |
