2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1979 Citroen GSA
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Citroen GSA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Citroen GSA would be higher. At 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1979 Citroen GSA. (64 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen GSA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 343 kg more than 1979 Citroen GSA. 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 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen GSA. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen GSA. 2009 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1979 Citroen GSA has manual transmission. 1979 Citroen GSA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1979 Citroen GSA | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | C3 | GSA |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1263 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2560 mm |
