1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 42 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (103 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 735 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 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 1998 Volkswagen Golf
Make Citroen Volkswagen
Model 2CV Golf
Year Released 1956 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 374 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 10 HP 103 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 22 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 66 mm 76.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 62 mm 86.9 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 495 kg 1230 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 55 L