2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,306 cc, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |