2003 Mazda 6 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (144 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 75 kg more than 2003 Mazda 6. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 6 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.7 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
