2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 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 2,770 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 428 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Volkswagen Passat (279 Nm) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 10.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
