1981 Volkswagen Santana vs. 2011 Citroen C3
To start off, 2011 Citroen C3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Citroen C3 (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Citroen C3 weights approximately 98 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2011 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 2011 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Santana 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:
| 1981 Volkswagen Santana | 2011 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Citroen |
| Model | Santana | C3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1123 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
