2005 Citroen C3 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2005 Citroen C3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,963 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2005 Citroen C3. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen C3 weights approximately 203 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-3 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 1978 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen C3. (94 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen C3 | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | C3 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1053 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
