1989 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 290 kg more than 1989 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda RX-7. 2006 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda RX-7 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-7 | Passat |
Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1520 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2720 mm |