2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 242 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 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 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2560 mm |
