1959 Peugeot 403 vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 1978 Mazda 626 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Peugeot 403. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Peugeot 403 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 626 (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1959 Peugeot 403. (56 HP @ 4650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1959 Peugeot 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1959 Peugeot 403. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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. 1978 Mazda 626 has automatic transmission and 1959 Peugeot 403 has manual transmission. 1959 Peugeot 403 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mazda 626 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Peugeot 403 | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Mazda |
| Model | 403 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1466 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4650 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
