1980 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1979 Mazda 626
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 626 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1979 Mazda 626 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 1979 Mazda 626. 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. 1979 Mazda 626 has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mazda 626 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Passat | 1979 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Passat | 626 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2520 mm |
