2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 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 2,327 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (206 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2327 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 206 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1455 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |