2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1971 Mercury Cougar

To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercury Cougar (167 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 398 kg more than 2009 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Mercury Cougar 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 1971 Mercury Cougar. 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, 1971 Mercury Cougar (363 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C3.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Citroen C3 1971 Mercury Cougar
Make Citroen Mercury
Model C3 Cougar
Year Released 2009 1971
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1587 cc 5769 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 108 HP 167 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 147 Nm 363 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1252 kg 1650 kg
Vehicle Length 3940 mm 5080 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1920 mm
Vehicle Height 1570 mm 1310 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2860 mm