2005 Citroen C3 vs. 1979 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2005 Citroen C3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen C3 (72 HP) has 13 more horse power than 1979 Ford Cortina. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen C3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1979 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Ford Cortina is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Citroen C3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Cortina. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen C3 | 1979 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | C3 | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1359 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
