1981 Mazda 323 vs. 1998 Peugeot 306
To start off, 1998 Peugeot 306 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Peugeot 306 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Peugeot 306 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Peugeot 306 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Peugeot 306 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1981 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Peugeot 306 (180 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Peugeot 306 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 1998 Peugeot 306 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 323 | 306 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2550 mm |
