1967 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2009 Citroen C3
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (88 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. (64 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 412 kg more than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Citroen C3 (133 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. 2009 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite has manual transmission. 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite | 2009 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Citroen |
| Model | Sprite | C3 |
| Year Released | 1967 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1126 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3490 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 45 L |
