1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1966 Peugeot 204
To start off, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Peugeot 204. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Peugeot 204 would be higher. At 2,290 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1966 Peugeot 204. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1966 Peugeot 204. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda RX-2 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1966 Peugeot 204. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-2 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 1978 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Peugeot 204, 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, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Peugeot 204. (84 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Peugeot 204.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-2 | 1966 Peugeot 204 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | RX-2 | 204 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 1129 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2610 mm |
