2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
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 W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 361 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C3. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2009 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 625 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C3. (94 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C3. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 2009 Citroen C3 has manual transmission. 2009 Citroen C3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen W12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C3 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
