1972 Citroen DS vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,347 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen DS (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen DS weights approximately 212 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-7 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 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1972 Citroen DS (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen DS | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | DS | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2347 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
