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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (118 HP @ 5660 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (90 HP @ 5250 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 235 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 (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (142 Nm @ 3000 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 | 1598 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5660 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 13.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
