1973 Subaru R-2 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Sharan (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1973 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1973 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 1255 kg more than 1973 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 Sharan (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Subaru R-2 | 1998 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | R-2 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2840 mm |
