2002 Mazda 6 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 Mazda 6 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 6 (148 HP) has 89 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1980 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, 2002 Mazda 6 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 6 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 6 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2480 mm |
