1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1979 Peugeot 505
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Peugeot 505. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Peugeot 505 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Peugeot 505 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1979 Peugeot 505. (95 HP @ 4150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1979 Peugeot 505.
Because 1979 Peugeot 505 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 1979 Peugeot 505. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1979 Peugeot 505 (206 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1979 Peugeot 505 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1979 Peugeot 505 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 323 | 505 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2750 mm |
