1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1973 Peugeot 504
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Peugeot 504. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Peugeot 504 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Peugeot 504 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Peugeot 504 (91 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Peugeot 504 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Peugeot 504 weights approximately 448 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Peugeot 504 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 1973 Peugeot 504. 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, 1973 Peugeot 504 (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (117 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Peugeot 504 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1973 Peugeot 504 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 323 | 504 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2910 mm |
