1985 Peugeot 309 vs. 2006 Smart ForTwo

To start off, 2006 Smart ForTwo is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Peugeot 309 would be higher. At 1,124 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Peugeot 309 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart ForTwo (60 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1985 Peugeot 309. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1985 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Peugeot 309 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2006 Smart ForTwo.

Because 2006 Smart ForTwo 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 2006 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Peugeot 309, 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, 2006 Smart ForTwo (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Peugeot 309. (87 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Peugeot 309. 2006 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 1985 Peugeot 309 has manual transmission. 1985 Peugeot 309 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Peugeot 309 2006 Smart ForTwo
Make Peugeot Smart
Model 309 ForTwo
Year Released 1985 2006
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1124 cc 698 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 54 HP 60 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 87 Nm 95 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 72 mm 66.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 69 mm 67 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.4:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 870 kg 815 kg
Vehicle Length 4060 mm 2510 mm
Vehicle Width 1630 mm 1540 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1560 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 1820 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 33 L