2008 Mazda 2 vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mazda 2 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 2 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 2 weights approximately 51 kg more than 1973 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, 2008 Mazda 2 (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 2 | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 45 L |
