1974 Peugeot 304 vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 1997 Peugeot 406 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,580 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Peugeot 406 (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1974 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1974 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1974 Peugeot 304. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Peugeot 406 (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Peugeot 304 | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Peugeot |
| Model | 304 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
