2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo 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 40 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Citroen C3 weights approximately 197 kg more than 1996 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 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
