1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2001 Peugeot 206
To start off, 2001 Peugeot 206 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Peugeot 206 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2001 Peugeot 206. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Peugeot 206. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Peugeot 206 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Peugeot 206, 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, 2001 Peugeot 206 (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Peugeot 206 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-3 | 2001 Peugeot 206 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | RX-3 | 206 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
