2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (88 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 206 kg more than 1983 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, both vehicles can yield 133 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1983 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1126 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
