1998 Citroen Xantia vs. 1977 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xantia is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xantia. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xantia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 433 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Citroen Xantia (142 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xantia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xantia | 1977 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Xantia | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2320 mm |
