2003 Mazda Washu vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Mazda Washu 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Washu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Washu (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Washu should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 39 kg more than 2003 Mazda Washu.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda Washu. 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 Washu (283 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (206 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Washu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 Mazda Washu has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda Washu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Washu | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Washu | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2710 mm |
