2003 Citroen C3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Citroen C3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Citroen C3 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 2400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 92 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, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 2003 Citroen C3 has manual transmission. 2003 Citroen C3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1138 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
