1994 Mazda 323 vs. 1978 Peugeot 305
To start off, 1994 Mazda 323 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Peugeot 305. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Peugeot 305 would be higher. At 1,548 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Peugeot 305 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Peugeot 305 (94 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1994 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Peugeot 305 should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mazda 323 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1978 Peugeot 305.
Because 1994 Mazda 323 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 1994 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Peugeot 305, 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, 1978 Peugeot 305 (132 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1978 Peugeot 305 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda 323 | 1978 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 323 | 305 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1322 cc | 1548 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 94 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
