1961 AC Ace vs. 2012 Citroen C3
To start off, 2012 Citroen C3 is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 AC Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 AC Ace would be higher. At 2,553 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 AC Ace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Citroen C3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1961 AC Ace. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1961 AC Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C3 weights approximately 389 kg more than 1961 AC Ace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 AC Ace is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 AC Ace. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Citroen C3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 AC Ace. (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 AC Ace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 AC Ace | 2012 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | AC | Citroen |
| Model | Ace | C3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 813 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
