2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1995 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1995 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1995 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 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1995 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
