1997 Peugeot 406 vs. 2012 Nissan 370Z
To start off, 2012 Nissan 370Z is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan 370Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan 370Z (332 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (108 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan 370Z should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan 370Z weights approximately 9 kg more than 1997 Peugeot 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Nissan 370Z 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 2012 Nissan 370Z. 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, 2012 Nissan 370Z (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 406. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan 370Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Peugeot 406 | 2012 Nissan 370Z | |
| Make | Peugeot | Nissan |
| Model | 406 | 370Z |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2088 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 332 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
