1998 Citroen Saxo vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Citroen Saxo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Citroen Saxo would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Saxo (117 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Saxo should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1998 Citroen Saxo.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 145 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Citroen Saxo has manual transmission. 1998 Citroen Saxo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Saxo | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Saxo | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2650 mm |
