2002 Citroen C3 vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Citroen C3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Citroen C3 would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 345 kg more than 2002 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda RX-8 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | C3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 61 L |
