1998 Citroen Saxo vs. 1976 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1998 Citroen Saxo is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Saxo (117 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Saxo should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Saxo weights approximately 75 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mazda RX-3 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 1976 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Citroen Saxo (145 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Saxo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Saxo | 1976 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Saxo | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2320 mm |
