1987 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Citroen C3
To start off, 2012 Citroen C3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Citroen C3 (118 HP @ 5660 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Golf. (55 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C3 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Citroen |
| Model | Golf | C3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5660 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
