1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (69 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 670 kg more than 1956 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (26 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV.

Compare all specifications:

1956 Citroen 2CV 1997 Volkswagen Golf
Make Citroen Volkswagen
Model 2CV Golf
Year Released 1956 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 425 cc 1894 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 12 HP 69 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 26 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 66 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 62 mm 95.5 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 495 kg 1165 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 45 L