1997 Peugeot 406 vs. 1962 Peugeot 404
To start off, 1997 Peugeot 406 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Peugeot 404. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Peugeot 404 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Peugeot 406 (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1962 Peugeot 404. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1962 Peugeot 404. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 234 kg more than 1962 Peugeot 404. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Peugeot 404 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 1962 Peugeot 404. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406, 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, 1997 Peugeot 406 (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Peugeot 404. (133 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Peugeot 404.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Peugeot 406 | 1962 Peugeot 404 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Peugeot |
| Model | 406 | 404 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1618 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 7.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
