2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP) has 82 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
