2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1988 Lada Samara
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lada Samara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lada Samara would be higher. At 1,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lada Samara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Citroen C3 (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1988 Lada Samara. (70 HP @ 5550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lada Samara weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Citroen C3.
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 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Samara. (117 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lada Samara. 2003 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Lada Samara has manual transmission. 1988 Lada Samara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1988 Lada Samara | |
| Make | Citroen | Lada |
| Model | C3 | Samara |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5550 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2470 mm |
