2004 Citroen C3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Citroen C3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen C3 (88 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 25 kg more than 2004 Citroen C3.
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 (133 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2004 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C3 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
