2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (114 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 335 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda 323 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 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Citroen Xsara (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Xsara | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
