2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Peugeot 504
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Peugeot 504. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Peugeot 504 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Peugeot 504 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 504. (91 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 504. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Peugeot 504 weights approximately 201 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 1978 Peugeot 504 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 1978 Peugeot 504. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3, 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, 1978 Peugeot 504 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Peugeot 504 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1978 Peugeot 504 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 3 | 504 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2910 mm |
