2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 21 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1086 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
