2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (88 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Vectra weights approximately 59 kg more than 2009 Citroen C3.
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 (133 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra. 2009 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Vectra 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 | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | C3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1126 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
