2005 Citroen C3 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2005 Citroen C3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen C3 (89 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 69 kg more than 2005 Citroen C3.
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 (134 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2005 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen C3 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | C3 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2460 mm |
