1999 Citroen Saxo vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3

To start off, 1999 Citroen Saxo is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,962 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Saxo. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Saxo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mazda RX-3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1999 Citroen Saxo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1974 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 1974 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Citroen Saxo. (74 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1974 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Citroen Saxo.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Citroen Saxo 1974 Mazda RX-3
Make Citroen Mazda
Model Saxo RX-3
Year Released 1999 1974
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 954 cc 1962 cc
Engine Type in-line dual-disk rotary
Horse Power 49 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 74 Nm 135 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 805 kg 850 kg
Vehicle Length 3730 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1600 mm 1600 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2390 mm 2320 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 65 L