2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
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 Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 308 kg more than 1988 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 (245 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1408 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 42 L |
