1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Citroen C3
To start off, 2012 Citroen C3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2012 Citroen C3. (70 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2012 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 153 kg more than 2012 Citroen C3. 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 (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Citroen C3. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2012 Citroen C3 has manual transmission. 2012 Citroen C3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Citroen |
| Model | Golf | C3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 13.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1022 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
