Citroen C3 vs Peugeot 208: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Citroen C3 and Peugeot 208, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 637,697 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Peugeot 208 comes out slightly ahead with a 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 National Avg | -5 pts | -2 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195 | £939Winner |
| 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) | Petrol, Diesel | Diesel, Petrol |
| 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 |
Common Problems Comparison
Citroen C3 Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Peugeot 208 Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Citroen C3
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Check a Specific Peugeot 208
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Citroen C3 vs Peugeot 208 FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Citroen C3 or Peugeot 208?
Based on MOT data, the Peugeot 208 is more reliable with a 80% pass rate, compared to 77% for the Citroen C3.
Which is cheaper to run?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Citroen C3 costs around £1,195 in fuel, while the Peugeot 208 costs around £939. The Peugeot 208 is cheaper on 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 a 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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