2005 Citroen C3 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Citroen C3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen C3 (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen C3 weights approximately 341 kg more than 1978 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, 2005 Citroen C3 (147 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen C3 | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.8 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1097 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
