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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1987 Citroen AX. (44 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen AX.
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 (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen AX. (74 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen AX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen AX | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | AX | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 954 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2639 mm |
