2006 Mazda Tribute vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mazda Tribute is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,261 cc, 2006 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda Tribute (153 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 146 kg more than 2006 Mazda Tribute.
Because 2006 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda Tribute 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, 2006 Mazda Tribute (206 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2006 Mazda Tribute has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda Tribute will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda Tribute | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tribute | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1594 cc |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
