1973 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1197 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mazda RX-4 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 1973 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mazda RX-4 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
