1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 179 kg more than 1979 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, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2480 mm |
