2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle 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 (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Citroen C3 weights approximately 392 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 2002 Citroen C3 (200 Nm) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 2002 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
