2004 Citroen C3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Citroen C3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Citroen C3 would be higher. At 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP) has 330 more horse power than 2004 Citroen C3. (72 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 675 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 490 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Citroen C3. (110 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Citroen C3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 402 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1211 kg | 1886 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 80 L |
