1996 Citroen Saxo vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1996 Citroen Saxo is newer by 7 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 1,527 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Citroen Saxo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1996 Citroen Saxo. (55 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Citroen Saxo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1996 Citroen Saxo. 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, 1996 Citroen Saxo, 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Citroen Saxo. (95 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Citroen Saxo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Citroen Saxo | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Saxo | 323 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1527 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2620 mm |
