2007 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,347 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 Mazda 3 (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mazda 3 | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Passat |
Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1347 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |