2000 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2000 Citroen Xsara is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,290 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Citroen Xsara (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 195 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-2 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 1978 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2000 Citroen Xsara (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Xsara | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2480 mm |
