Citroen C3 vs Peugeot 208: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Citroen C3 and Peugeot 208, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 637,697 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The Peugeot 208 comes out slightly ahead with an 80% MOT pass rate versus 77% for the Citroen C3. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Peugeot 208 has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Citroen C3
77%
MOT pass rate
327,173 tests
Peugeot 208
80%
MOT pass rate
310,524 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Citroen C3 vs Peugeot 208
| Category | Citroen C3 | Peugeot 208 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 77% | 80%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 23% | 20%Winner |
| vs All-Model Avg | -5 pts | -2 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,512 | £1,512 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 6-15 | 6-15 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.4L | 1.3L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Diesel, Petrol | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 68,263 mi | 46,310 miWinner |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 327,173 | 310,524 |
| Model Years | 20 years | 11 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (95%)Winner | 2021 (92%) |
| Worst Year | 2003 (66%) | 2012 (74%)Winner |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Pass rates are the share of MOT tests that ended in a pass (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included), across all years of each model. Best and worst years need at least 100 tests. Fuel cost, insurance group and depreciation are our rough estimates from engine size and make, not official figures.
Common Problems Comparison
Typical issues to check on cars of this type and age, not faults measured for these models.
Citroen C3: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Peugeot 208: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
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Citroen C3 vs Peugeot 208 FAQ
Can I compare a Citroen C3 and Peugeot 208 by registration plate?
Yes. Enter each car's UK registration plate on this page or use our free compare tool at carcostcheck.co.uk/compare to see MOT history, mileage, health scores and running costs for the exact vehicles you are considering, not just model averages.
Which is more reliable, the Citroen C3 or Peugeot 208?
The Peugeot 208 has the higher MOT pass rate, 80% compared to 77% for the Citroen C3 (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Citroen C3 or Peugeot 208?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Citroen C3 costs around £1,512 in fuel, while the Peugeot 208 costs around £1,512 (our estimates for petrol versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 19 October 2026). On these estimates they cost the same in fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Citroen C3 or Peugeot 208?
The Peugeot 208 comes out slightly ahead with an 80% MOT pass rate versus 77% for the Citroen C3. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Peugeot 208 has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Citroen C3 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Peugeot 208 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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