2004 Citroen C3 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Citroen C3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf 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 23 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen C3 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2004 Citroen C3 (116 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C3 | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
