2004 Mazda MX vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
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 MX (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. 2004 Mazda MX has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mazda MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2400 mm |
