2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1972 Peugeot 304
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,349 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1972 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1972 Peugeot 304. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Mazda 3 (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Peugeot 304. (95 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1972 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 3 | 304 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 67.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 42 L |
