2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1974 Peugeot 304
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1974 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 635 kg more than 1974 Peugeot 304. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1974 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 3 | 304 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 42 L |
