2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1959 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,216 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Lotus Elite (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen C3 weights approximately 473 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Because 1959 Lotus Elite is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Citroen C3 (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1959 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | C3 | Elite |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1053 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 29 L |
