2004 Citroen C3 vs. 1959 NSU Prinz I
To start off, 2004 Citroen C3 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 NSU Prinz I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 NSU Prinz I would be higher. At 1,124 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen C3 (58 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1959 NSU Prinz I. (20 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1959 NSU Prinz I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen C3 weights approximately 537 kg more than 1959 NSU Prinz I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 NSU Prinz I 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 1959 NSU Prinz I. 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 (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 NSU Prinz I. (41 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 NSU Prinz I.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C3 | 1959 NSU Prinz I | |
| Make | Citroen | NSU |
| Model | C3 | Prinz I |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 41 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 156 km/hour | 109 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1053 kg | 516 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 44 L |
