1988 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Citroen C3
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (108 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 289 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. 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 Citroen C3 (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323. 2009 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1988 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 2009 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Citroen |
| Model | 323 | C3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1159 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
