1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 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 53 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 39 kg more than 1980 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 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
