1978 Subaru Rex vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Subaru Rex. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Subaru Rex would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1978 Subaru Rex. (29 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Subaru Rex. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 943 kg more than 1978 Subaru Rex. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Subaru Rex 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 1978 Subaru Rex. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Subaru Rex. (42 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Subaru Rex. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1978 Subaru Rex has manual transmission. 1978 Subaru Rex will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Subaru Rex | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rex | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 544 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2720 mm |
