1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1989 Peugeot 309
To start off, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Peugeot 309 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1989 Peugeot 309. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1989 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 452 kg more than 1989 Peugeot 309. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mazda RX-7 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 1996 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Peugeot 309. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Peugeot 309.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 1989 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | RX-7 | 309 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1116 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2480 mm |
