2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Passat |
Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |