2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (70 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 272 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2009 Citroen C3 (147 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (85 Nm). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1091 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.4 seconds | 16.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1022 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
