1961 Peugeot 403 vs. 2012 Mazda 2
To start off, 2012 Mazda 2 is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Peugeot 403. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Peugeot 403 would be higher. At 1,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 2 (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1961 Peugeot 403. (55 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1961 Peugeot 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Peugeot 403 weights approximately 184 kg more than 2012 Mazda 2.
Because 1961 Peugeot 403 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 1961 Peugeot 403. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 2, 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. 2012 Mazda 2 has automatic transmission and 1961 Peugeot 403 has manual transmission. 1961 Peugeot 403 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 2 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Peugeot 403 | 2012 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Mazda |
| Model | 403 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 1500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 43 L |
