1968 Subaru 360 vs. 2003 Subaru R2
To start off, 2003 Subaru R2 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Subaru 360. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Subaru 360 would be higher. At 658 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru R2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru R2 (44 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1968 Subaru 360. (20 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2 should accelerate faster than 1968 Subaru 360. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru R2 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1968 Subaru 360. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Subaru 360 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 1968 Subaru 360. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2, 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, 2003 Subaru R2 (58 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Subaru 360. (35 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru R2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Subaru 360.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Subaru 360 | 2003 Subaru R2 | |
| Make | Subaru | Subaru |
| Model | 360 | R2 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 355 cc | 658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 35 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 415 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1810 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 30 L |
