2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf 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 (67 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen C3 weights approximately 267 kg more than 1986 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 (120 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 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 1986 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1097 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.2 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
