1983 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1994 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1994 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1983 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1994 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1994 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 150 kg more than 1983 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1983 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 1983 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1983 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1983 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mazda RX-7 | 1994 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
