2005 Citroen C3 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Citroen C3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2005 Citroen C3. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 337 kg more than 2005 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen C3. (94 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen C3 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | C3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 156 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1053 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
