1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Mazda 323
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xsara (57 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 340 kg more than 1981 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Citroen Xsara (117 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Xsara | 323 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1069 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2370 mm |
