1977 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1995 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1995 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1995 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 358 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1977 Mazda RX-3 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 1977 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1995 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda RX-3 | 1995 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1620 mm |
