2008 Citroen C3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Citroen C3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen C3 (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen C3 weights approximately 3 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 160 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2008 Citroen C3 has manual transmission. 2008 Citroen C3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen C3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.4 seconds | 18.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1123 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
