2006 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 64 kg more 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, 2012 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 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
