2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1983 Peugeot 305
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (160 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1983 Peugeot 305. (65 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Peugeot 305.
Because 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 MX-5 Miata. 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Peugeot 305. (122 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1983 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 305 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 65 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2630 mm |
