2006 Citroen C3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Citroen C3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Citroen C3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2006 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2006 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 193 kg more than 2006 Citroen C3. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Citroen C3. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 2006 Citroen C3 has manual transmission. 2006 Citroen C3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Citroen C3 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
