2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1995 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1995 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1995 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 218 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.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1995 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Passat |
Year Released | 2006 | 1995 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1780 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |