2002 Mazda 2 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 Mazda 2 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (78 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 225 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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
