2004 Citroen C3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Citroen C3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen C3 (88 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen C3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. 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 (133 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. 2004 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1997 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
