2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1970 Volvo 120
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (108 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 120. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 129 kg more than 1970 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volvo 120 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 1970 Volvo 120. 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, 1970 Volvo 120 (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1970 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1970 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | C3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1159 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2610 mm |
