2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1988 Ford Sierra
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Citroen C3 (87 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1988 Ford Sierra. (74 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Citroen C3 weights approximately 247 kg more than 1988 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford Sierra 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 1988 Ford Sierra. 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 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Sierra. (122 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2002 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Sierra. 2002 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Ford Sierra has manual transmission. 1988 Ford Sierra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 1988 Ford Sierra | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | C3 | Sierra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1257 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2620 mm |
