2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,598 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 247 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1422 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
