2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volkswagen Passat (90 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 77 kg more than 2003 Citroen C3. 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, 1988 Volkswagen Passat (142 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 156 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 17.3 seconds | 13.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1053 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
