2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1981 Renault 4
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 4 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 40 more horse power than 1981 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Citroen C3 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1981 Renault 4. 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 (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 4. (63 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 1981 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | C3 | 4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
