2006 Citroen C3 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Citroen C3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Citroen C3 (87 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Citroen C3 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2006 Citroen C3 (134 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. 2006 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Citroen C3 | 1988 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2340 mm |
