2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Citroen C3 (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen C3 weights approximately 223 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2003 Citroen C3 (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1053 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.2 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
