1983 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (99 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 146 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Passat | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Passat | 3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 99 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2650 mm |
