1972 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 463 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1972 Mazda RX-2 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 1972 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mazda RX-2 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-2 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2720 mm |
