1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Citroen C5
To start off, 2009 Citroen C5 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C5 (134 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C5 weights approximately 408 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda 323 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C5, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 C5 (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2009 Citroen C5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Citroen |
| Model | 323 | C5 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 11.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 66 L |
