2005 Citroen C3 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Citroen C3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda 323 (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Citroen C3. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen C3 weights approximately 207 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323.
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, 2005 Citroen C3 (205 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen C3 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | C3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
