2003 Mazda 6 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1974 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, 2003 Mazda 6 (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 6 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2480 mm |
