1982 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 Citroen C3
To start off, 2012 Citroen C3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Citroen C3 (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C3 weights approximately 604 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2012 Citroen C3 (136 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Citroen |
| Model | Polo | C3 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 148 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1334 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 50 L |
