1973 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Citroen C3
To start off, 2011 Citroen C3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Citroen C3 (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Citroen C3 weights approximately 229 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2011 Citroen C3 (161 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Citroen |
| Model | Passat | C3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 894 kg | 1123 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2470 mm |
