2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C3. (118 HP @ 5660 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 404 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.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C3. (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Citroen C3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C3 | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4971 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 315 HP |
Engine RPM | 5660 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 468 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1769 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |