1974 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 31 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 335 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 1974 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 1974 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (286 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
