2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1977 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,662 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 58 kg more than 1977 Volvo 260.
Because 1977 Volvo 260 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 1977 Volvo 260. 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 (245 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 260. 1977 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2009 Citroen C3 has manual transmission. 2009 Citroen C3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1977 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | C3 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1408 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2660 mm |
