1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 1997 Peugeot 406 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Peugeot 406 (109 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1966 Datsun 1000. (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1966 Datsun 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 760 kg more than 1966 Datsun 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Datsun 1000 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 1966 Datsun 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406, 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, 1997 Peugeot 406 (156 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Datsun | Peugeot |
| Model | 1000 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1761 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2710 mm |
