2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1997 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda 3 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Passat |
Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1780 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |