1997 Peugeot 406 vs. 1996 Peugeot 205
To start off, 1997 Peugeot 406 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Peugeot 205. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Peugeot 205 would be higher. At 1,580 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Peugeot 205 (102 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Peugeot 205 should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1996 Peugeot 205.
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, 1997 Peugeot 406 (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Peugeot 205. (122 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Peugeot 205.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Peugeot 406 | 1996 Peugeot 205 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Peugeot |
| Model | 406 | 205 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
