2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (72 HP) has 13 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 371 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. 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 (118 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Citroen | Vauxhall |
| Model | C3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1211 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
