1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1986 Peugeot 604
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Peugeot 604. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Peugeot 604 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Peugeot 604 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Peugeot 604 (153 HP) has 79 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Peugeot 604 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Peugeot 604 weights approximately 273 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Peugeot 604 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 1986 Peugeot 604. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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, 1986 Peugeot 604 (242 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Peugeot 604 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1986 Peugeot 604 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 323 | 604 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 153 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 242 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
