1978 Peugeot 305 vs. 2003 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2003 Peugeot 406 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Peugeot 305. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Peugeot 305 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Peugeot 406 (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 305. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 386 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Peugeot 406 (197 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 305. (132 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Peugeot 305 | 2003 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Peugeot |
| Model | 305 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1548 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1361 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2450 mm |
