1977 Mazda 323 vs. 1990 Peugeot 309
To start off, 1990 Peugeot 309 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,580 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Peugeot 309 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Peugeot 309 (91 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Peugeot 309 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Peugeot 309 weights approximately 78 kg more than 1977 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 323 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 1977 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Peugeot 309, 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, 1990 Peugeot 309 (135 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Peugeot 309 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 323 | 1990 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 323 | 309 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 983 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 812 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 70 L |
