2002 Mazda 2 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 Mazda 2 is newer by 6 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (73 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 85 kg more than 2002 Mazda 2. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 2 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
