2011 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 89 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2011 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Passat |
Year Released | 2011 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1300 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 212 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1341 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2703 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |