2002 Citroen C3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 266 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 55 L |
