1976 Mazda RX-4 vs. 1978 Peugeot 305
To start off, 1978 Peugeot 305 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mazda RX-4 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 305. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mazda RX-4 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1978 Peugeot 305. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mazda RX-4 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-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Peugeot 305, 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-4 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 305. (132 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1976 Mazda RX-4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda RX-4 | 1978 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | RX-4 | 305 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1548 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2750 mm |
