1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 3 weights approximately 503 kg more than 1996 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, 2010 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
Model | Passat | 3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 54 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 92 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1363 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |