1997 Peugeot 406 vs. 1956 Peugeot 203
To start off, 1997 Peugeot 406 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Peugeot 203. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Peugeot 203 would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Peugeot 406 (191 HP) has 147 more horse power than 1956 Peugeot 203. (44 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1956 Peugeot 203. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1956 Peugeot 203. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Peugeot 203 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 1956 Peugeot 203. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406, 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 406 (267 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Peugeot 203. (80 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Peugeot 203.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Peugeot 406 | 1956 Peugeot 203 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Peugeot |
| Model | 406 | 203 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 44 HP |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
