2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda 3 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1593 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 263 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 380 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 77.4 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |