2005 Citroen C3 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
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 Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,457 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen C3 (72 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen C3 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. 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 (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen C3 | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1359 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
