2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1995 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1995 Peugeot 406. (108 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1995 Peugeot 406. 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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Peugeot 406. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1995 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 3 | 406 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2087 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
