1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Citroen C3
To start off, 2011 Citroen C3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Citroen C3 (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 152 kg more than 2011 Citroen C3.
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 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2011 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat 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:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Citroen |
| Model | Passat | C3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1058 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1670 mm |
