2009 Citroen C3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 5 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 423 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C3. (70 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1003 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 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, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 653 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C3. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Citroen C3 has manual transmission. 2009 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:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.4 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1022 kg | 2025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.4 L/100km | 14.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
