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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 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 325 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 (320 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 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 | 1560 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
