1965 Mazda R 360 vs. 1974 Peugeot 304
To start off, 1974 Peugeot 304 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Mazda R 360. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Mazda R 360 would be higher. At 1,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Peugeot 304 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Peugeot 304 (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1965 Mazda R 360. (16 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Peugeot 304 should accelerate faster than 1965 Mazda R 360. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Peugeot 304 weights approximately 566 kg more than 1965 Mazda R 360. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Mazda R 360 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 1965 Mazda R 360. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Peugeot 304, 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, 1974 Peugeot 304 (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Mazda R 360. (22 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Peugeot 304 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Mazda R 360.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Mazda R 360 | 1974 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | R 360 | 304 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 67.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 384 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2990 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1770 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 42 L |
