2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 33 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2496 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
