2004 Citroen C3 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2004 Citroen C3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2004 Citroen C3. (72 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 461 kg more than 2004 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Citroen C3. (116 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Citroen C3. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2004 Citroen C3 has manual transmission. 2004 Citroen C3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C3 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 90 L |
