2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1961 NSU Prinz
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 NSU Prinz. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 NSU Prinz would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Citroen C3 (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1961 NSU Prinz. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1961 NSU Prinz. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Citroen C3 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1961 NSU Prinz. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 NSU Prinz is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 NSU Prinz. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 Citroen C3 (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 NSU Prinz. (42 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 NSU Prinz.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 1961 NSU Prinz | |
| Make | Citroen | NSU |
| Model | C3 | Prinz |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 37 L |
