2004 Citroen C3 vs. 1958 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2004 Citroen C3 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen C3 (72 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1958 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1958 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen C3 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1958 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Lotus Elite is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1958 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Citroen C3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Citroen C3 (116 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Lotus Elite. (105 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C3 | 1958 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | C3 | Elite |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 29 L |
