2006 Citroen C3 vs. 1981 Skoda Rapid R
To start off, 2006 Citroen C3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Citroen C3 (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Citroen C3 weights approximately 364 kg more than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Skoda Rapid R 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 1981 Skoda Rapid R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Citroen C3 (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 2006 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Skoda Rapid R.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Citroen C3 | 1981 Skoda Rapid R | |
| Make | Citroen | Skoda |
| Model | C3 | Rapid R |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1216 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 47 L |
