2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (94 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 504 kg more than 1988 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, 2009 Citroen C3 (136 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1334 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
