1987 Citroen AX vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Citroen AX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Citroen AX would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1987 Citroen AX. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 661 kg more than 1987 Citroen AX. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen AX. (73 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen AX. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1987 Citroen AX has manual transmission. 1987 Citroen AX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen AX | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | AX | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 954 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 722 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
