2004 Citroen C3 vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Citroen C3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (165 HP) has 93 more horse power than 2004 Citroen C3. (72 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 440 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 1988 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Citroen C3. (118 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C3 | 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1359 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 165 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2950 mm |
