2004 Mazda 6 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 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 2,964 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 12 kg more than 2004 Mazda 6.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 6. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 6. (260 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 6 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2964 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1513 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
