1996 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 276 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda MX-3 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
