1983 Citroen CX vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1983 Citroen CX is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Citroen CX (137 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Citroen CX should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Citroen CX weights approximately 460 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mazda RX-3 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 1974 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Citroen CX, 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, 1983 Citroen CX (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Citroen CX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Citroen CX | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | CX | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
