1978 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 410 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-7 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-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-7 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
