2006 Mazda 6 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 6 weights approximately 38 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
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 6 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 6 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 189 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.1 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
