2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1975 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (148 HP) has 73 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1975 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (114 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1975 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
