2002 Citroen C3 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Citroen C3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Citroen C3 would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (89 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 157 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (115 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1279 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
