1961 Citroen 2CV vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1961 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1961 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 804 kg more than 1961 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Citroen 2CV. 1999 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1961 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1961 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1961 Citroen 2CV 1999 Volkswagen Golf
Make Citroen Volkswagen
Model 2CV Golf
Year Released 1961 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 375 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 10 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 22 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 7.5:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 495 kg 1299 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 55 L