1979 Citroen GSA vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Citroen GSA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Citroen GSA would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1979 Citroen GSA. (63 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen GSA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1979 Citroen GSA. 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 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen GSA. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen GSA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Citroen GSA | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | GSA | 3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
