2005 Mazda 6 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 6 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 197 kg more than 1996 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, 2005 Mazda 6 (210 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 6 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 6 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
