2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Citroen C3 (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Opel Ascona weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Citroen C3.
Let's talk about torque, 2003 Citroen C3 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | C3 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
