2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1985 Peugeot 309
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Peugeot 309 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 20 more horse power than 1985 Peugeot 309. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Citroen C3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1985 Peugeot 309. 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Peugeot 309. (87 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Peugeot 309.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 1985 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Citroen | Peugeot |
| Model | C3 | 309 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1124 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 55 L |
