2002 Peugeot 306 vs. 1959 Peugeot 203
To start off, 2002 Peugeot 306 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Peugeot 203. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Peugeot 203 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Peugeot 306 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Peugeot 306 (100 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1959 Peugeot 203. (44 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Peugeot 306 should accelerate faster than 1959 Peugeot 203. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Peugeot 306 weights approximately 226 kg more than 1959 Peugeot 203. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Peugeot 203 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 1959 Peugeot 203. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Peugeot 306, 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, 2002 Peugeot 306 (135 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Peugeot 203. (80 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Peugeot 306 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Peugeot 203.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Peugeot 306 | 1959 Peugeot 203 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Peugeot |
| Model | 306 | 203 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 984 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
