1973 Ford Cortina vs. 2004 Citroen C3
To start off, 2004 Citroen C3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen C3 (72 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1973 Ford Cortina. (56 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen C3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1973 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Ford Cortina 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 1973 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Citroen C3 (118 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Ford Cortina. 2004 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1973 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1973 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ford Cortina | 2004 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Ford | Citroen |
| Model | Cortina | C3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 72 HP |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 45 L |
