2009 Citroen C3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Citroen C3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Citroen C3 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (264 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 613 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 15.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
