1968 Citroen DS vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Citroen DS would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Citroen DS (98 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Citroen DS weights approximately 225 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda 323 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 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Citroen DS, 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, 1968 Citroen DS (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1968 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Citroen DS | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | DS | 323 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
