2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (118 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 705 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Lotus Elite 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Citroen C3 (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | C3 | Elite |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 29 L |
