1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,963 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 30 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda RX-3 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-3 | Passat |
Year Released | 1978 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 135 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2480 mm |