2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Citroen C3 (118 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Citroen C3 weights approximately 3 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda 121 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 1981 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C3, 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, 1981 Mazda 121 (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Citroen C3 | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Citroen | Mazda |
Model | C3 | 121 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 98 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1133 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |