2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 12 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 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C3. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 787 kg more than 2009 Citroen C3. 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, 2009 Citroen C3 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1263 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.3 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
