2003 Citroen C3 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (87 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 98 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 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3. 2003 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | C3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1292 kg | 1390 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 | 45 L | 61 L |
