1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2011 Citroen C3
To start off, 2011 Citroen C3 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Citroen C3 (89 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Citroen C3 weights approximately 603 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Lotus Elite 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Citroen C3 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite. 2011 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1962 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1962 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2011 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Citroen |
| Model | Elite | C3 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1263 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 45 L |
