1996 Mazda MPV vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MPV. (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MPV weights approximately 202 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1996 Mazda MPV 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 1996 Mazda MPV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1996 Mazda MPV (228 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (225 Nm). This means 1996 Mazda MPV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda MPV | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MPV | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2954 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
