2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1997 Renault Clio
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Clio would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (88 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1997 Renault Clio. (59 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 271 kg more than 1997 Renault Clio. 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 (133 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Clio. (85 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Clio. 2009 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Renault Clio has manual transmission. 1997 Renault Clio 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 | 1997 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | C3 | Clio |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 75.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 64.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1126 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 38 L |
