2012 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 221 kg more than 2003 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Volkswagen Passat | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
Model | Passat | 3 |
Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 195 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | 6-speed automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1461 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4769 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2712 mm | 2850 mm |
Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |