2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 280 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-7 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 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Citroen Xsara (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Xsara | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 189 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
