1986 Citroen C vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Citroen C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Citroen C would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1986 Citroen C. (59 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 294 kg more than 1986 Citroen C. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Citroen C. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Citroen C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Citroen C | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2520 mm |
