2008 Citroen C3 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Citroen C3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit (72 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2008 Citroen C3. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen C3 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
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, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen C3. (94 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen C3. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2008 Citroen C3 has manual transmission. 2008 Citroen C3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen C3 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
