2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1990 Peugeot 309
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Peugeot 309 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1990 Peugeot 309. (78 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 144 kg more than 1990 Peugeot 309. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Peugeot 309, 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Peugeot 309. (159 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Peugeot 309.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1990 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 3 | 309 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1769 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
