1976 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1989 Peugeot 205
To start off, 1989 Peugeot 205 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1989 Peugeot 205. (44 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Peugeot 205. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mazda RX-3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1989 Peugeot 205. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mazda RX-3 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 1976 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Peugeot 205, 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, 1976 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Peugeot 205. (75 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1976 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Peugeot 205.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda RX-3 | 1989 Peugeot 205 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | RX-3 | 205 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 952 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 75 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2430 mm |
