2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1973 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Citroen C3 (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1973 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | C3 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1252 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
