1973 Citroen GS vs. 1978 Mazda 626

To start off, 1978 Mazda 626 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Citroen GS would be higher. At 1,990 cc, 1973 Citroen GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Citroen GS (107 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen GS should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen GS weights approximately 145 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 626. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Citroen GS, 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, 1978 Mazda 626 (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen GS. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen GS.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Citroen GS 1978 Mazda 626
Make Citroen Mazda
Model GS 626
Year Released 1973 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1990 cc 1768 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary in-line
Horse Power 107 HP 93 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 137 Nm 150 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3300 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1140 kg 995 kg
Vehicle Length 4130 mm 4310 mm
Vehicle Width 1620 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2520 mm