2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 217 kg more than 2002 Citroen C3. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (205 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (108 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
