2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2000 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2000 Volkswagen Passat. (151 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2000 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 36 kg more than 2000 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2000 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, 2000 Volkswagen Passat (279 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm). This means 2000 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2000 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2614 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1354 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
