1983 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 29 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1983 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 424 kg more than 1983 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Mazda RX-7 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-7 | Passat |
Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1400 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1484 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4771 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |