1974 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 275 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Mazda RX-4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda RX-4 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
