1988 Citroen AX vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Citroen AX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Citroen AX would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1988 Citroen AX. (52 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1988 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Citroen AX. (84 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Citroen AX. 2009 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Citroen AX has manual transmission. 1988 Citroen AX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Citroen AX | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | AX | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
