1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 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 135 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1996 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 1996 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, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
