2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 36 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 62 L |
