1951 Peugeot 203 vs. 1978 Peugeot 305
To start off, 1978 Peugeot 305 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Peugeot 203. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Peugeot 203 would be higher. At 1,472 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Peugeot 305 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Peugeot 305 (72 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1951 Peugeot 203. (44 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Peugeot 305 should accelerate faster than 1951 Peugeot 203. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Peugeot 305 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1951 Peugeot 203. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1951 Peugeot 203 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 1951 Peugeot 203. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Peugeot 305, 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, 1978 Peugeot 305 (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Peugeot 203. (80 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Peugeot 305 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Peugeot 203.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Peugeot 203 | 1978 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Peugeot |
| Model | 203 | 305 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 72 HP |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2630 mm |
