2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,628 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Citroen C3 (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen C3 weights approximately 184 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Citroen C3 (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | C3 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1628 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2460 mm |
