2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Peugeot 306
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Peugeot 306. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 306 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 306 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Peugeot 306 (167 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 306 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 306 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. 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, 1997 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, 1997 Peugeot 306 (197 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 306 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1997 Peugeot 306 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 3 | 306 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
