1978 Mazda RX-2 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 RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,290 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 390 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda RX-2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-2 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-2 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2720 mm |
