2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 626 (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C3. (70 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 626 weights approximately 168 kg more than 2009 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Citroen C3 (147 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | C3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1022 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2620 mm |
