2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 3 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda RX-8 | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1895 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1422 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |