2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C3. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 51 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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 (151 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1211 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
