1993 Citroen Xantia vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 1993 Citroen Xantia is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Citroen Xantia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda 121 (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1993 Citroen Xantia. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1993 Citroen Xantia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 238 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121.
Because 1981 Mazda 121 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 1981 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Citroen Xantia, 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, 1981 Mazda 121 (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Citroen Xantia. (110 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Citroen Xantia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Citroen Xantia | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Xantia | 121 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 98 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2520 mm |
