2009 Nissan Altima vs. 2012 Citroen C3
To start off, 2012 Citroen C3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2012 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2012 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 194 kg more than 2012 Citroen C3. 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 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Altima | 2012 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Citroen |
| Model | Altima | C3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1252 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 47 L |
