2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1983 Peugeot 305
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Peugeot 305. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Peugeot 305 would be higher. At 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Peugeot 305 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1983 Peugeot 305. (65 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1983 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1983 Peugeot 305. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda RX-8 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Peugeot 305, 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, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Peugeot 305. (122 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda RX-8 | 1983 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | RX-8 | 305 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 65 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
