1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 1997 Peugeot 406 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 194 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 406. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 323 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
