1978 Peugeot 305 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 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 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 305. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 305.
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, 2011 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 305. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Peugeot 305 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Mazda |
| Model | 305 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2639 mm |
