2005 Citroen C3 vs. 1981 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2005 Citroen C3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen C3 (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen C3 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1981 Suzuki Alto. 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 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen C3 | 1981 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Citroen | Suzuki |
| Model | C3 | Alto |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2160 mm |
