1971 Subaru R-2 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1971 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1971 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 700 kg more than 1971 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Subaru R-2 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 1971 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Subaru R-2 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | R-2 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2520 mm |
