1997 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Citroen C3 (108 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C3 weights approximately 139 kg more than 1997 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 (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (117 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. 2012 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Citroen |
| Model | Polo | C3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1159 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
