2009 Citroen C3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (240 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C3. (87 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1044 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 S is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Citroen C3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 S (616 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 483 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C3. (133 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C3 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 616 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1126 kg | 2170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 90 L |
