2003 Citroen Xsara vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 1,527 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 2003 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 179 kg more than 2003 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen Xsara. (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen Xsara | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Xsara | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1527 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1246 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 61 L |
