2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Citroen C3 (89 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Citroen C3 weights approximately 439 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 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 (115 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 2002 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1279 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
