2008 Mazda 2 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mazda 2 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 2 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. (101 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 309 kg more than 2008 Mazda 2.
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, 1998 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 2. (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 2 | 1998 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 77.4 mm |
| 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 | 966 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
