2006 Citroen C3 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2006 Citroen C3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2006 Citroen C3. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 307 kg more than 2006 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Citroen C3. (94 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Citroen C3.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Citroen C3 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model C3 SL
Year Released 2006 1971
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1124 cc 2778 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 94 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1053 kg 1360 kg
Vehicle Length 3860 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1310 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2410 mm