1987 Citroen BX vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Citroen BX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Citroen BX would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1987 Citroen BX. (71 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1987 Citroen BX. 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen BX. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen BX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen BX | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | BX | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1358 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
