1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1953 Peugeot 203
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Peugeot 203. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Peugeot 203 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda 323 (72 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1953 Peugeot 203. (44 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1953 Peugeot 203. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Peugeot 203 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323.
Because 1953 Peugeot 203 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 1953 Peugeot 203. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323, 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, 1985 Mazda 323 (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Peugeot 203. (80 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Peugeot 203.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1953 Peugeot 203 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 323 | 203 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1953 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1610 mm |
