2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (90 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1988 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (142 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 13.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
