1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1989 Peugeot 309
To start off, 1989 Peugeot 309 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,116 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Peugeot 309 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1989 Peugeot 309. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite should accelerate faster than 1989 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Peugeot 309 weights approximately 136 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Because 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Peugeot 309, 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, 1989 Peugeot 309 (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1989 Peugeot 309 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1989 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Peugeot |
| Model | Sprite | 309 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1116 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2480 mm |
