1972 Citroen DS vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 37 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 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 32 kg more than 1972 Citroen DS. 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 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen DS | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | DS | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2650 mm |
