1978 Mazda 818 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 374 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 1978 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 818 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 818 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2710 mm |
