2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Peugeot 305
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Peugeot 305. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Peugeot 305 would be higher. At 1,472 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Peugeot 305 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 305. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1978 Peugeot 305. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 305. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1978 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 3 | 305 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 1472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
