2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Citroen C3
To start off, 2011 Citroen C3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 2011 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 628 kg more than 2011 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 313 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Citroen C3. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2011 Citroen C3 has manual transmission. 2011 Citroen C3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Citroen |
| Model | SL | C3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 12.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1252 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 47 L |
