2005 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 64 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (228 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (226 Nm). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Passat | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1454 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
