2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (200 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 395 kg more than 2003 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda RX-7 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 1989 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (264 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3. 2003 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | C3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2430 mm |
