2003 Citroen C3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (87 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 255 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3. 2003 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.5 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1292 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 4.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
