2003 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2003 Citroen Xsara is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 20 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Citroen Xsara, 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 RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen Xsara. (113 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Xsara | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
